Indian Navy Considers Leasing Second Russian Nuclear Submarine

The Indian Navy is considering leasing a second Akula-class nuclear-powered submarine from Russia, according to The Hindu.

According to the report, the possibility of the lease was indicated by India's Defense Minister Manohar Parrikar, in a meeting with journalists following Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to India last week.

In 2012, India began a 10-year lease of the Akula-class submarine Nerpa. After joining India's Navy, the submarine was renamed INS Chakra.

Akula-class nuclear-powered attack submarines are considered to be some of the quietest in the world, due to the use of the latest technology in their construction. They are capable of dealing with both underwater and surface targets and can be equipped with torpedoes and mines, as well as with long-range missiles.