India tests nuclear-capable ballistic missile from INS Arighaat

New Delhi, November 28: India has successfully tested a nuclear-capable submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) with a strike range of 3,500 km, fired from the newly commissioned nuclear-powered submarine, INS Arighaat. The test took place off Visakhapatnam in the Bay of Bengal on Wednesday morning.

Although no official announcement has been made regarding the missile test, sources indicate that the solid-fueled K-4 missile was used for the test. The K-4 missile, with a range of 3,500 km, had previously been tested only from submersible pontoons. This marks the first time it has been launched from a submarine, specifically the 6,000-tonne INS Arighaat, which was commissioned in August 2024.

A detailed analysis of the test results will determine whether the missile successfully met the trial objectives and parameters. The Indian Navy had earlier issued a public warning for an intermediate-range missile test in the Bay of Bengal, further confirming the timing of the launch.

INS Arighaat is India’s second nuclear-powered submarine with the capability to launch nuclear-tipped ballistic missiles, known as SSBNs (Ship Submersible Ballistic Nuclear). It provides a significant boost to India’s nuclear triad, which includes the ability to launch nuclear strikes from land, air, and sea. Unlike its predecessor, INS Arihant, which carries K-15 missiles with a range of 750 km, INS Arighaat can carry the more powerful K-4 missiles.

The successful induction of INS Arighaat strengthens India’s underwater nuclear deterrent. SSBNs are considered the most secure platforms for nuclear retaliation, as they are hard to detect and can remain submerged for extended periods. India’s missile capabilities are expected to further advance with the planned development of the K-5 and K-6 missiles, which will have ranges of 5,000 to 6,000 km.

India is also set to induct its third SSBN, INS Aridhaman, in early 2025. This submarine, with a displacement of 7,000 tonnes, will carry additional K-4 missiles and bolster India’s nuclear deterrent. Additionally, plans are underway to construct a fourth SSBN under the advanced technology vessel (ATV) project, with the eventual goal of building even larger submarines, including a 13,500-tonne SSBN with more powerful reactors.

India’s SSBNs are significantly smaller than those of major powers like the US and China. While China has Jin-class SSBNs with 10,000 km-range JL-3 missiles, and the US operates Ohio-class SSBNs with similar capabilities, India’s SSBN fleet is steadily expanding to enhance its nuclear deterrence strategy.