Russia to lease third nuclear submarine to India

Image: Indian Navy
Image: Indian Navy – INS Chakra, an Akula-classed submarine leased from Russia

Russia is set to lease a nuclear-powered attack submarine to India for 10 years under a US$3 billion contract signed by the two countries on Thursday, March 7.

The submarine will be a Project 971 or Akula­-class ship which will be named Chakra III in Indian service.

Delivery of the nuclear-powered submarine, the third such ship that Russia will lease to the Indian Navy, is scheduled for 2025.

A senior Indian Navy official has confirmed that Chakra III will be fitted with Indian sensors and communications systems under the lease contract.


Baird Maritime

The best maritime site on the web. The sea's our scene!