India hails big defence achievement as K-4 missile tested. Indian Navy successfully test fires nuclear-capable submarine-launched ballistic K-4 Missile with the range of 3,500 km. The Test was carried out after successfully launching it from the Newly inducted nuclear powered INS Arighaat which had off the Bay of Bengal so it becomes an assurance to prove that all is well as it adds to India’s rising might by cementing the second- strike capability.
What is K-4 Missile?
K-4 missile is a SLBM that was originally developed from India in the Defence Research and Development Organisation. It is a subsonic, free-range cruise missile, able to carry nuclear warheads, with an estimated distance of impact over 3,500 kilometers. Consequently, it is able to give itself a vital role to play in India’s strategy for defense.
It is a step above the K-15 missile, which has a range of 750 kilometers. The extended range capability would enable the submarine to reach more distant targets without making herself closer to potential competitors. In this manner, she would be even more survivable and effective.
K-4 Missile Test Highlights
Platform: Launched from India’s second nuclear-powered submarine INS Arighaat.
Location: Bay of Bengal off the coast of Visakhapatnam.
Objective: To qualify the missile for operational use and for India’s second-strike nuclear deterrent.
Impact: K-4 Test of testifies to Indian Nuclear triad’s boost to its power in both land and sea as well as in air.
INS Arighaat: The submarine behind the K-4 Missile Test
INS Arighaat is the second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine commissioned by India in August 2024. The vessel was constructed at the Ship Building Centre in Vishakhapatnam and is a superior version of its precursor, INS Arihant.
Key features of INS Arighaat:
It is equipped with advanced technology for underwater stealth and precision missile launches.
It is equipped with the K-4 missile for nuclear deterrence at long ranges.
More operationally ready than INS Arihant.
India is also going to commission its third nuclear submarine by early 2025 by the name of INS Aridhaman, thereby further increasing its nuclear power.
Why the K-4 Missile Test Matters
The successful test of the K-4 missile by India has upgraded its nuclear deterrence posture. It has shown that India can launch long-range missiles from submarines and therefore reiterates that it will maintain peace and stability in the region only through a credible second-strike capability.
This test also reflects the speed of indigenous development of advanced defense technologies by India under the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” program.
Future Strategic Defence of India
The K-4 missile test comes as part of efforts to give India a modern strategic edge. Development of advanced systems and growth in the submarine nuclear fleet is expected to give the country:
Increased ability to respond to threats. Survivability of nuclear assets.
It is capable of deterring much better other adversaries. The K-4 missile will finally make India emerge as a strong strategic power in the world defense scenario with a humongous pile-up of military equipment arsenal. Conclusion Great defence journey for India-This INS Arighaat, INS Subhodh Baxla commissioned, tested its first and only K-4 missiles. It proved commitment and further cemented a stronger position as a world nuclear power with credible nuclear deterrents. This success further paves the way for the improvement of India’s strategic capabilities to guarantee national security as well as regional stability.
