LONDON — Euphoria in India surrounding the launch of the INS Arihant is not entirely unwarranted. After decades of investment, India finally has the ability to indigenously build and operate a nuclear-powered submarine, a feat accomplished by only five other countries.
Yet, this should not blind India to the fact that it has miles to go before it can catch up with its neighbor, China, which has made some significant advances in the waters surrounding India.
Just a few months back, China's growing naval capability was on full display when it paraded its nuclear- powered submarines for the first time during celebrations to mark the 60th anniversary of the People's Liberation Army Navy. Gone is China's old reticence in admitting such capabilities.