PM to launch India’s first indigenous nuclear sub

VISAKHAPATNAM - Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will launch the country’s first indigenously designed and built nuclear-powered attack submarine - INS Arihant, here Sunday.

The submarine will be commissioned in the Indian Navy after extensive outfitting and sea trials. It is the first of three such vessels to be built in the country and marks a quantum leap in India’s shipbuilding capabilities.

The function will also be attended by Defence Minister A.K. Antony.

The submarine is currently housed in a dry dock, which will be flooded with sea water to mark the launching ceremony.

July 26 is annually commemorated as Kargil Victory Day to mark the Indian Army’s success against Pakistani intruders who had occupied the area in Jammu and Kashmir in 1999.

The Indian Navy will also get a Russian-built Akula class nuclear submarine, to be commissioned as INS Chakra, by this year-end.