Why India’s Leased Akula-Class Nuclear Attack Submarine from Russia Will Arrive Only by 2028—and What It Means for Naval Power in the Indo-Pacific
India is set to receive the leased Akula-class nuclear attack submarine from Russia by 2028, marking a significant update to its underwater warfare capabilities. Originally scheduled for delivery in 2025, the timeline has been pushed back due to a combination of logistical and technical challenges. This delay has important implications for India’s naval strategy in the increasingly contested Indo-Pacific region.
Why the Delay in Delivery?
The $3 billion deal signed in 2019 between India and Russia aimed to lease an advanced Akula-1 class nuclear-powered attack submarine, designated INS Chakra III, for a 10-year period. However, several factors have contributed to the delay:
- Impact of the Russia-Ukraine Conflict: The ongoing war has disrupted supply chains and delayed refurbishment efforts needed to prepare the submarine.
- Western Sanctions on Russia: Sanctions have limited Russia’s access to key components and technologies essential for modernizing the submarine.
- Technical and Logistical Challenges: Complexities in customizing the submarine to meet Indian Navy requirements have extended the timeline.
How Will INS Chakra III Enhance India’s Naval Power?
The Akula-class submarine is a nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) known for its stealth, speed, and endurance. Unlike conventional diesel-electric submarines, SSNs can operate submerged for long durations without surfacing, making them critical assets for underwater warfare and strategic deterrence.
INS Chakra III will replace the INS Chakra II, which India leased from Russia between 2012 and 2022. The new submarine will provide:
- Advanced Underwater Warfare Capabilities: Enhanced ability to track and neutralize enemy vessels.
- Strategic Presence in the Indo-Pacific: Strengthening India’s maritime influence amid growing regional tensions.
- Technological Edge: Access to Russian nuclear submarine technology supports India’s naval modernization and indigenous development.
What Does This Mean for India’s Naval Strategy?
The delay creates a temporary gap in India’s nuclear submarine capabilities following the return of INS Chakra II in 2022. However, leasing the Akula-class submarine remains a vital part of India’s approach to maintaining underwater superiority while its indigenous submarine programs mature.
India’s strategy combines immediate capability enhancement through leasing with long-term self-reliance by developing domestic nuclear submarines under projects like Project 75I.
Looking Ahead
Despite the postponement, the arrival of the leased Akula-class nuclear attack submarine by 2028 will be a game-changer for India’s naval power. It will bolster deterrence, enhance underwater warfare capabilities, and solidify India’s position as a key maritime power in the Indo-Pacific.
For more insights on India’s naval modernization, check out our articles on Russia's offer to modernize INS Talwar-Class guided Missile frigate and IAC vikrant India's first Aircraft carrier.