"The Indian Navy is fast emerging as a lean, capability-dominant and fully networked force with 'longer sea legs' and the potential to manage a range of responsibilities in a swiftly changing global security environment. The Chief of Naval staff reacted cautiously to reports that the navy was acquiring two Russian Akula (Bars)-class Type 971 nuclear-powered submarines (SSNs) as part of India's nuclear deterrent based on sea, land and air platforms. "The navy is the third leg of our nuclear triad and submarines are the obvious platform of choice. We definitely need to have nuclear submarines and would love to have them." The CNS was equally non-committal about India's secretive SSN programme, known as the Advanced Technology Vessel, under development since late 1970 and reported to be up for sea trials by 2009-2010. "The navy is exploring a variety of propulsion systems for its surface and submarine platforms which are progressing satisfactorily," Adm. Mehta said, adding that the navy would incorporate "such of these designs as deemed suitable in the fullness of time."