Indian Navy’s Acquisition of INS Chakra III Postponed Amidst Ukraine Conflict
In a significant setback for the Indian Navy, plans to enhance its underwater capabilities with the acquisition of the INS Chakra III, a Russian Akula-class nuclear-powered attack submarine, have been delayed. Originally anticipated to enter service in 2025, the delivery timeline has now been pushed back to at least 2028 due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the associated Western sanctions on Russia.
The $3 billion deal, finalized in 2019, entails a 10-year lease of the Akula-1 class submarine, which was expected to bolster India’s naval capabilities with advanced SSN technology. Known for their stealth, speed, and deep-diving capabilities, Akula-class submarines serve as critical assets in underwater warfare, making the acquisition of INS Chakra III vital for India in the complex security environment of the Indo-Pacific region.
The submarine is intended to bridge the operational gap left by the INS Chakra II, another Akula-class submarine that was returned to Russia in 2021 after completing its lease. The delay in acquiring the INS Chakra III not only disrupts India’s plans to enhance its naval strength but also affects its overall preparedness in light of increasing security challenges in the region.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has severely impacted the availability of key components and technologies required for refurbishing and modernizing the submarine to meet India’s unique operational needs. As a result, the anticipated delivery has been postponed, with the submarine now expected to join the Indian fleet late in 2027 or in 2028.
Before it can be operational, the INS Chakra III is set to undergo an intensive refit, which will include the integration of Indian communication and sensor systems. This customization is essential for ensuring seamless interoperability with existing naval infrastructure and operational protocols, thus allowing the submarine to function effectively in the Indian Ocean Region and integrate with India’s naval command and control systems.
The delay serves as a reminder of the critical need for India to diversify its defense procurement and enhance self-reliance to mitigate risks from external geopolitical factors. The Indian Navy continues to pursue modernization efforts, but the road ahead is fraught with challenges amidst a rapidly evolving security landscape.
