India leases Russian nuclear submarine for training purposes.

According to Bloomberg, India has reached an agreement worth approximately $2 billion to lease a nuclear-powered submarine from Russia for 10 years. Under the terms, the vessel will only be used for training and not for combat missions. Delivery is expected within two years, but the timeline may be delayed due to the complexity of the nuclear project.

Agreement Overview

Bloomberg reported that the deal became possible after the two sides resolved price differences that had hampered the agreement for years. The new vessel is described as larger than the two Russian nuclear-powered submarines previously operated by the Indian Navy under a lease agreement. The lease term is 10 years and includes maintenance from the Russian side, similar to previous agreements between the two countries.

According to the terms, the submarines were not intended for combat but for training Indian crews in the entire process of operating nuclear submarines, from technical operation to long-duration sea voyages and covert operations.

Technical analysis: Training focus

The primary objective is to provide comprehensive training to the Indian crew on nuclear submarine operation procedures. This includes mastering procedures, practicing long-duration sea voyages, and conducting covert operations. With a larger platform than previously leased vessels, the training is designed to handle larger-scale operations, thereby improving procedural standards and crew coordination.

The inclusion of a maintenance package from Russia throughout the lease term helps maintain technical readiness and allows for observation of maintenance procedures according to manufacturer standards—a crucial factor in developing maintenance and repair capabilities as India develops its own nuclear submarine force.

Tactics and operating procedures

According to the information provided, the training program includes long voyages and covert operations. These are two key capabilities of modern submarine warfare: maintaining endurance at sea and preserving low visibility throughout the mission. Systematic training on a nuclear platform allows for testing and refining tactical procedures, from crew organization and system operation to information coordination under prolonged conditions in a marine environment.

These contents directly serve the long-term goal of developing Indian-designed and built nuclear attack submarines, as stated in the information.

Background of India's nuclear submarine program

Previously, India returned the K-152 "Nerpa" nuclear submarine, part of Project 971I, to Russia in 2021 and did not renew the contract, instead continuing to develop its own nuclear project and infrastructure. This latest lease agreement is expected to help strengthen personnel training and standardize operational procedures on the nuclear platform.

The source also mentions the broader context: many countries use government-to-government military equipment leasing mechanisms. The United States is cited as the leader in the number of such agreements over the past decade and actively promotes fighter jets abroad through leasing.

Summary of key terms and conditions

Source note

The information in this article is compiled from Bloomberg, as stated in the source.