India's K-4 Missile Test Boosts Naval Nuclear Deterrence

Missile and Submarine Specifications

• Successful test of K-4 ballistic missile from INS Arighaat.

Missile specifications:

• • Range: 3,500 kilometers
  • Payload capacity: 2 tonnes
  • Length: 10 meters
  • Weight: 20 tonnes
• Tested in Vishakahpatnam Coast (Bay of Bengal)
• Significant upgrade from previous K-15 missile (750 km range)

Submarine capabilities:

• • Nuclear-powered
  • Can carry four K-4 missiles
  • Commissioned in August 2024
  • Indigenously developed

Strategic Significance

• Enhances India's nuclear triad capabilities
• Provides second-strike nuclear capability

Targets include:

• • Entire Pakistan
  • Significant portions of China
• Demonstrates technological self-reliance (Aatmanirbharta)
• Developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)

Uses advanced navigation systems:

• • Inertial navigation
  • GPS/NavIC satellite guidance
  • Terrain contour matching

Broader Geopolitical Context

• Responds to China's military assertiveness
• Part of India's long-term military modernization
• Nuclear submarine program initiated in 1970s

Future plans:

• • Build six nuclear attack submarines
  • Continuous technological improvements
• Joins select group of nations with comprehensive nuclear capabilities
• Missile can be launched from land, air, and sea platforms