K-4 Nuclear-Capable Ballistic Missile: On Wednesday, the Indian Navy successfully test-fired the 3,500 km-range K-4 ballistic missile from its newly inducted nuclear submarine, INS Arighaat, according to ANI. Defence sources indicated that the missile test is a key step in validating India’s second-strike capability, a crucial element of its nuclear deterrence. Following this successful test, the Navy plans to conduct more tests of the missile system.
INS Arighaat, which was inducted into service in August at the Ship Building Centre in Vishakhapatnam, is part of India’s growing nuclear-powered submarine fleet. The missile’s full-range test followed several earlier trials by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to test its firing capability from underwater platforms.
Currently, the Indian Navy operates two nuclear-powered submarines, INS Arihant and INS Arighaat, both of which are equipped to launch ballistic missiles. A third submarine has been launched and is expected to join the fleet next year.
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“The test of the ballistic missile was done for the full range. The details are being analysed and the top military and political brass would be briefed by officials concerned on the exact details after complete analysis,” said Defence sources.
The test of the K-4 ballistic missile was carried out in the Bay of Bengal and marks a significant milestone in India’s defence capabilities, particularly in enhancing the country’s nuclear deterrence. According to sources, prior to the full-range test, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted extensive trials of the missile’s launch from underwater platforms.
INS Arighaat, the nuclear submarine from which the missile was launched, was inducted into the Indian Navy in August this year at the Ship Building Centre in Vishakhapatnam. This successful test reinforces India’s growing strength in nuclear-powered submarine capabilities.
All about K-4 Ballistic Missile
The K-4 ballistic missile, designed for launch from underwater platforms, is an important asset in India’s defence. Developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the missile has a range of 3,500 km and can carry nuclear payloads accurately, adding strength to India’s nuclear capabilities. It also has a strike range of about 750 km.
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INS Arighaat, which was inducted into the Strategic Forces Command in August 2024, is India’s second Arihant-class submarine. It can carry several K-4 missiles, making it a powerful part of India’s nuclear-powered submarine fleet.
INS Arighaat was built using advanced technology, special materials, and complex engineering. India is working on building five Arihant-class submarines and six nuclear attack submarines. The goal is to strengthen its long-term submarine fleet with both nuclear and conventional submarines.
