India Launches Fourth Nuclear-Powered Ballistic Missile Submarine
Why in the news?
India has launched its fourth SSBN, codenamed S4*, enhancing its nuclear deterrence capabilities with K-4 ballistic missiles and marking a significant advancement in indigenous defence manufacturing.
About India’s Fourth SSBN Launch:
- India has quietly launched its fourth nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), codenamed S4*, at the Ship Building Center (SBC) in
- This new SSBN features nearly 75 percent indigenous components, enhancing domestic defence manufacturing capabilities.
- The submarine is equipped with K-4 ballistic missiles, which have a range of 3,500 km, and can be launched through vertical systems.
- This follows the commissioning of INS Arighaat in August 2024, while INS Aridhaman is expected to be commissioned next year.
Enhanced Strategic Capabilities:
- S4* serves as the last of its class of SSBNs, with its formal name yet to be revealed.
- The SSBN plays a crucial role in providing India with second-strike nuclear capabilities, a key element in nuclear deterrence strategy.
- SSBNs operate on the principle of mutual assured destruction (MAD), ensuring retaliation in the event of a nuclear attack.
- With unlimited operational range, SSBNs like S4* are only constrained by crew endurance, food supplies, and maintenance needs.
Strategic Importance of SSBN Fleet
- INS Arihant, India’s first SSBN, equipped with shorter-range K-15 missiles, along with INS Arighaat, are currently on deep-sea patrols.
- The SSBN fleet bolsters India’s strategic defence posture, providing a credible nuclear deterrent.
- The K-4 missile system on S4* significantly extends India’s nuclear strike range, further enhancing national security.
- These submarines are considered a critical asset for maintaining India’s defensive and retaliatory capabilities.
What is the K-4 Ballistic Missile ?
- The K-4 is a solid-fuelled ballistic missile developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
- It is designed to be deployed on nuclear-powered submarines like INS Arihant and its sister vessels.
- The missile has a range of 3,500 km, making it capable of targeting nearly all regions of Pakistan and several parts of China.
- K-4 enhances India’s second-strike nuclear capability, ensuring a credible deterrent for strategic defence.