New Delhi: In a major stride towards bolstering India’s nuclear deterrence, the Indian Navy successfully test-fired the K-4 ballistic missile with a range of 3,500 km from the recently inducted nuclear-powered submarine INS Arighaat. The test, conducted in the Bay of Bengal on Wednesday, is being hailed as a significant milestone in the nation’s strategic defense capabilities, according to defence sources.
INS Arighaat’s Maiden Test: A Leap in Strategic Readiness
This marks the first major missile test conducted from INS Arighaat, which was inducted into the Indian Navy in August 2024 at the Vishakhapatnam-based Ship Building Centre. Operated by the Strategic Forces Command, the submarine demonstrated its operational readiness by successfully launching the K-4 missile, a critical component of India’s nuclear triad.
The test was conducted to evaluate the missile’s full operational range. Defence sources confirmed that extensive trials were carried out by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) prior to the launch to ensure its reliability from underwater platforms.
Analysis and Future Plans
The data from the test is currently under detailed analysis, with the results set to be presented to senior military and political leaders. Defence officials highlighted the importance of this test in affirming the missile’s capability to serve as a formidable deterrent in India’s strategic arsenal.
“The test represents a pivotal step in enhancing India’s self-reliant defence systems and nuclear deterrence,” a senior defence source stated.
INS Arighaat and India’s Expanding Fleet
INS Arighaat, along with its predecessor INS Arihant, forms the backbone of India’s nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine fleet. A third submarine in this class has already been launched and is expected to be operational by 2025, further strengthening the Navy’s underwater strategic capabilities.
The Navy plans to conduct additional tests to validate the K-4 missile system and ensure its seamless integration into India’s defense strategy. This test underscores India’s commitment to maintaining a robust and credible nuclear deterrent amidst evolving regional and global security challenges.
Bolstering the Nation’s Defence Posture
With the successful test-firing of the K-4 missile, India joins an elite group of nations capable of deploying nuclear-powered submarines equipped with long-range ballistic missiles. The development highlights the nation’s growing emphasis on indigenization and advanced military technology, reflecting a robust defense posture for safeguarding national interests.
This milestone not only boosts India’s defence capabilities but also reinforces its strategic autonomy in addressing emerging security threats.
