Why in news?
India recently tested the K‑4 missile from the nuclear‑powered submarine INS Arighaat off the coast of Visakhapatnam. The successful launch of this intermediate‑range ballistic missile, capable of striking targets 3,500 kilometres away, represents a major step towards operationalising India’s sea‑based nuclear deterrent.
Background
The K‑4 is a nuclear‑capable submarine‑launched ballistic missile (SLBM) developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It is the second missile in the “K” series (named after former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam) and is designed for deployment on Arihant‑class nuclear submarines. By equipping its submarines with longer‑range missiles, India aims to complete a credible nuclear triad, ensuring a secure second‑strike capability from land, air and sea.
Features
- Range and payload: The K‑4 has an estimated range of around 3,500 km and can carry a payload of up to 2 tonnes, including nuclear warheads. This extends India’s reach well beyond the Indian Ocean region.
- Propulsion: A two‑stage, solid‑fuelled design makes the missile more compact and reliable than liquid‑fuelled systems.
- Cold‑launch capability: The missile is ejected from the submarine’s launch tube using compressed gas before its engine ignites. This reduces stress on the submarine and enhances stealth.
- Guidance and accuracy: An advanced inertial navigation system supported by GPS and India’s own NavIC satellite system allows the missile to hit targets with a circular error probable of less than 10 metres. Manoeuvring fins help it evade missile defence systems.
- Platform: Arihant‑class submarines can carry up to four K‑4 missiles each. Future submarines are expected to carry larger missiles, such as the under‑development K‑5 and K‑6 with ranges exceeding 5,000 km.
Significance
The recent test demonstrates India’s progress towards a robust sea‑based deterrent. Having nuclear‑armed submarines at sea complicates an adversary’s calculations and strengthens strategic stability by assuring a retaliatory capability even if land‑based assets are compromised. Indigenous development of such technology also reduces dependence on foreign suppliers and showcases DRDO’s growing capabilities.
Conclusion
While the K‑4 still requires further tests before induction, its successful launch from INS Arighaat signals that India is close to completing its nuclear triad. Continued investment in submarine technology and missile development will be key to maintaining a credible deterrent and safeguarding national security.
Source: Times of India
