India has achieved another major milestone in the defence sector with the successful test of the nuclear-capable K-4 ballistic missile. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), along with the Indian Navy, conducted the test on December 23 from the indigenous nuclear submarine INS Arighaat in the Bay of Bengal.
Officials confirmed that the missile performed exactly as planned. It reached its full range and hit the assigned target with high accuracy. The forces carried out the test under tight secrecy to avoid foreign surveillance. Earlier, they postponed the launch due to the movement of Chinese spy ships in the region.
Powerful Missile for Strategic Deterrence
The K-4 missile is one of India’s strongest submarine-launched ballistic missiles. It can strike targets up to 3,500 kilometres away. This range allows India to target key regions from deep inside the Indian Ocean. The missile can carry nuclear warheads weighing up to two tonnes.
Engineers designed the K-4 especially for Arihant-class nuclear submarines. The missile is about 12 metres long and weighs nearly 17 tonnes. It uses cold-launch technology. First, the missile rises above the water. Then, its engine ignites and pushes it toward the target. This method improves safety and stealth.
Boost to India’s Nuclear Triad
The successful test has strengthened India’s nuclear triad. India can now deliver nuclear weapons from land, air, and sea. Agni missiles cover land attacks, fighter jets handle air strikes, and submarines ensure sea-based power.
More importantly, the K-4 missile improves India’s second-strike ability. Even if an enemy launches a first attack, India can respond strongly from the sea. Nuclear submarines remain hidden underwater, making them hard to detect.
Defence experts say this test sends a clear message about India’s growing military strength. It also places India among a small group of nations with advanced sea-based nuclear weapons. The achievement marks a strong step forward in national security and strategic defence readiness.
