India Tests K-4 Missile from Nuclear Submarine

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India achieved a significant milestone by successfully test-firing the K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) from the nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine INS Arighaat in the Bay of Bengal. This development enhances India’s nuclear deterrence and strengthens the country’s nuclear triad capabilities.

K4 Missile Key Highlights

Missile Tested: K-4 Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missile (SLBM).
Range: 3,500 km, capable of targeting deep into enemy territory.
Platform: Launched from INS Arighaat, India’s second Arihant-class nuclear submarine.
Location: Bay of Bengal.
Significance: Demonstrates India’s second-strike capability, essential for its nuclear deterrence doctrine.

INS Arighaat: A Strategic Asset

Commissioned: August 2024, at Visakhapatnam.
Capabilities:
- Carries K-4 missiles (3,500 km range).
- Can deploy K-15 Sagarika missiles (750 km range).
- Fitted with advanced indigenous systems developed under India’s ‘Aatmanirbharta’ initiative.
Power Source: 83 MW pressurized light-water nuclear reactor enabling extended underwater operations.
Technological Edge: Features cutting-edge design, enhanced stealth, and precision weaponry compared to its predecessor, INS Arihant.

K-4 Ballistic Missile: Key Features

Type: Submarine-launched nuclear-capable ballistic missile.
Developer: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
Purpose: Strengthen sea-based deterrence, a critical element of India’s nuclear doctrine.
Range: 3,500 km, significantly surpassing the 750 km range of K-15 Sagarika missiles.
Launch Capability: Designed for underwater launches, ensuring survivability in a nuclear conflict.

Significance for India’s Defense

Strengthens the Nuclear Triad:
- Complements land-based and air-based nuclear delivery systems.
- Ensures second-strike capability, crucial for India’s “no-first-use” nuclear policy.
Enhances Strategic Deterrence: Enables India to respond effectively to adversarial nuclear threats.
Showcases Indigenous Technology: Reflects advancements in India’s defense R&D through projects like the Arihant-class submarines and the K-series missiles.

India’s Nuclear Submarine Fleet

INS Arihant: Commissioned in 2016, equipped with K-15 and K-4 SLBMs.
INS Arighaat: Commissioned in 2024, an upgraded version of INS Arihant.
Upcoming Submarines: A third Arihant-class submarine is expected to be inducted by 2025.

Strategic Importance

Reinforces India’s position as a key maritime power in the Indo-Pacific region.
Enhances India’s defense against evolving regional threats.
Strengthens geopolitical influence through credible nuclear deterrence.

Conclusion

The successful test of the K-4 SLBM from INS Arighaat marks a significant milestone in India’s defense capabilities. It highlights India’s commitment to self-reliance and technological advancement while reinforcing its strategic deterrence and second-strike capabilities.