IDI, March 7

Just four days after the inauguration of a joint facility for manufacturing of AK-203 rifles in Amethi, India, on Thursday, signed a three billion dollar deal with Russia for the lease of second Akula class nuclear submarine. This is the third nuclear submarine lease agreement between the two nations.

India, currently, operates INS Chakra, an Akula Class nuclear attack submarine (SSN), operational with the Eastern Naval Command. Russia leased the SSN to India for a period of ten years in 2012.

In 1988, India had also leased one Charlie I class cruise missile nuclear submarine, also known as INS Chakra, for a period of four years.

Reportedly, the Chakra III is expected to enter into Indian Navy’s service in 2025. The two sides are also discussing the extension of the lease of the current SSN for another five years. The Chakra III will be built from an already constructed hull and is expected to be fitted with India made systems. Indian experts are also expected to be part of the construction of the vessel.