According to Jane's Defense Weekly, Indian Navy will lease two "Akula Class" (Type 971) nuclear-powered submarine (SSNs) from Russia, so as to rival China's growing "military existence" in the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal.

Jane's Defense Weekly, famous military publication of UK, recently quoted words from official that Indian Navy will lease two "Akula Class" (Type 971) nuclear-powered submarine (SSNs) from Russia to meet its demands of military operation which has seen its continuous expansion in recent years, so as to rival China's growing "military existence" in the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal.

It is said that the lease will covers five years and will last until India's self-built SSN-the Advanced Technology Vessel (ATV)-enters into service. The two SSNs are expected to join the Indian Navy in 2004 and the rental contract has been submitted to the Indian government for approval as reported.

( February 7, 2002)