In what comes as a major boost to the country's sea-based nuclear deterrence, India recently carried out another successful test of its nuclear-capable K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM).
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While defence ministry sources remain tight-lipped about the test, multiple media reports claim that the test of the SLBM, with a capacity to hit targets that are 3,500 km away, was carried out from INS Arighaat in the Bay of Bengal. K-4, which underwent another test in November, may soon be inducted into the nuclear arsenal of India managed by the tri-services Strategic Forces Command.
Named after former president A.P.J. Abdul Kalam and derived from Agni-III, K-4, powered by solid rocket propellant in a two-stage design, carries a warhead up to 2-2.5 tonnes (nuclear or conventional) with a range of 3,000-3,500 km.
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“A comprehensive analysis will determine whether Tuesday’s test actually met all laid-down technical parameters and mission objectives or revealed some shortcomings. It usually takes several tests for ballistic missiles, especially those launched from submarines, to achieve full operational status,” Times of India quoted a source as saying.
If confirmed, the test of K-4, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), gives increased validation to India's nuclear triad—land, air, and sea-based delivery systems—as it showcased the sea-based nuclear strike capabilities of Indian security forces.