The Indian Navy achieved a significant milestone on Wednesday by successfully test-firing the K-4 ballistic missile, capable of striking targets up to 3,500 km, from the newly-inducted nuclear submarine INS Arighaat. This test strengthens India’s second-strike capability, an essential component of its nuclear deterrence strategy.
Highlights of the Test
Submarine-Launched Missile Test
The K-4 missile test demonstrates India’s advanced capabilities in submarine-launched ballistic missile systems, further solidifying its strategic defense posture.
INS Arighaat’s Role
Inducted in August at the Vishakhapatnam-based Ship Building Centre, INS Arighaat joins INS Arihant as one of two nuclear-powered submarines in the Indian Navy capable of launching ballistic missiles.
Future Plans
The Navy plans to conduct additional tests of the missile system to ensure reliability and performance. A third nuclear submarine, already launched, is expected to be commissioned next year, further bolstering India’s undersea deterrence capability.
Strategic Importance
The successful K-4 missile test reinforces India’s commitment to maintaining a robust nuclear triad, enabling the capability to launch nuclear weapons from land, air, and sea. It marks another step in ensuring national security and deterring potential threats.