India achieves a significant milestone by testing the K-4 nuclear-capable ballistic missile from INS Arighaat, enhancing its nuclear deterrence and completing its nuclear triad.
India has taken a monumental step in its defence journey by successfully testing the K-4 nuclear-capable ballistic missile with a range of 3,500 km. The test was conducted from the nuclear-powered submarine INS Arighaat in the Bay of Bengal, marking India’s capability to launch nuclear missiles from land, air, and sea. This development places India in an elite group of nations with such advanced military capabilities.
Key Highlights of the K-4 Missile Test
Missile Test Details
- Missile Type: Nuclear-capable ballistic missile
- Range: Approximately 3,500 km
- Platform: Tested from INS Arighaat, a nuclear-powered submarine
- Location: Bay of Bengal, off the coast of Visakhapatnam
- Significance: First submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) test from a submarine
Strategic Importance
- Nuclear Triad: With this test, India achieves the distinction of deploying nuclear missiles from land, air, and undersea platforms.
- Enhanced Deterrence: Strengthens India’s strategic defence and nuclear deterrence capabilities.
- Indigenous Systems: The systems onboard INS Arighaat were conceptualized, designed, manufactured, and integrated by Indian scientists, industries, and naval personnel.
Recent Missile Development
Advancing India’s Military Capabilities
India has been actively testing various missile systems to enhance its defence posture. Just over 10 days ago, the country successfully tested a long-range hypersonic missile off the coast of Odisha.
Hypersonic Missiles
- Capabilities: Hypersonic missiles travel at speeds of Mach 5 (five times the speed of sound) or higher.
- Advantages: They are highly maneuverable, capable of changing their trajectory mid-course, making them challenging to intercept.
- Competitors: While Russia and China lead in hypersonic missile technology, the United States is actively developing its own systems.
Global Context and Strategic Implications
India’s focus on strengthening its military capabilities comes amidst growing concerns over China’s military assertiveness in the region. The successful test of the K-4 missile from INS Arighaat further underscores India’s commitment to enhancing its defence posture and ensuring regional stability.
Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Why in the news? | India successfully tests K-4 nuclear-capable ballistic missile from INS Arighaat |
| Range | 3,500 km |
| Platform | Submarine-launched from INS Arighaat |
| Location of Test | Bay of Bengal, off Visakhapatnam |
| Significance | First SLBM test from a submarine, strengthens nuclear triad |
| INS Arighaat | Commissioned on August 29, 2024 |
| Indigenous Contributions | Systems and equipment conceptualized, designed, and integrated by Indian scientists and navy |
| Hypersonic Missile Test | Long-range test 10 days earlier, achieving speeds above Mach 5 |
| Global Competitors in Hypersonics | Russia, China, and the US |
| Strategic Focus | Enhancing combat capabilities amidst China’s military activities |
India’s successful test of the K-4 missile not only bolsters its defence capabilities but also reinforces its position as a responsible nuclear power.
