Indian Navy has carried out the test firing of the 3,500 km-range K-4 ballistic missile from its newly inducted nuclear-powered submarine, INS Arighaat on Wednesday. The test conducted successfully in the Bay of Bengal.
Defense sources stated that the test results are being reviewed, and officials will brief top military and political leaders afterward.
The test is important to confirm the country’s ability to launch a second strike.
This test is important for strengthening India’s nuclear defense system, ensuring the country can respond to a nuclear attack.
K-4 nuclear-capable ballistic missile
The K-4 ballistic missile is one of the most important weapons of India, which design to launched from underwater platforms. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) had already conducted full-range test trials for the missile to ascertain that it meets the very stringent operational standards required for such strategic weapons.
The submarine commissioned at the Vishakhapatnam-based Ship Building Centre and boasts advanced technology, including a more powerful missile system than its predecessor, INS Arihant.
INS Arighaat equipped with K-4 missiles capable of striking targets over 3,500 kilometers away, far exceeding the range of the K-15 missiles on INS Arihant, which have a strike range of around 750 kilometers. This upgrade makes INS Arighaat a formidable addition to India’s nuclear-powered submarine fleet. By providing greater flexibility and strength to the country’s strategic defense system.
The Navy has two nuclear submarines capable of firing ballistic missiles: INS Arihant and INS Arighaat. A third submarine has been launched and is expected to join the fleet next year.
