India's INS Arihant SSBN: Capabilities, Command, and Strategic Dilemmas (warontherocks.com)

• INS Arihant completed first deterrent patrol in November 2018.
• Limited missile range (K-15: 750-1,000 km) restricts deterrence against China.
• India maintains strict civilian control over sea-based nuclear weapons via two-step authorization.

"India's first ballistic missile submarine, INS Arihant, completed its maiden deterrent patrol in November 2018, marking the completion of India's nuclear triad. However, the submarine's capabilities are limited: its K-15 missiles have a range of only 750-1,000 km, insufficient for credible deterrence against China. The submarine's design evolved from a Soviet-era attack submarine, leading to post-hoc fixes. India has implemented robust command and control to ensure civilian control and avoid hair-trigger alerts. The Arihant's deployment raises a 'Goldilocks dilemma': enhancing deterrence against China may provoke Pakistan, worsening crisis stability."