India successfully tests K-4 submarine-launched nuclear missile from INS Arighaat

economictimes.indiatimes.com:

nuclear-powered submarine INS Arighaat. The test, which took place on Wednesday morning off the coast of Visakhapatnam, was conducted in the Bay of Bengal. The K-4 missile, which is solid-fuelled and has a strike range of 3,500 km, was launched from the 6,000-tonne submarine, first reported by TOI.

Details of the Missile Test

While there has been no official confirmation of the test, sources familiar with the matter confirmed to TOI that the K-4 missile was launched as part of the exercise. According to reports from Rajat Pandit of the Times of India, the missile was tested for the first time from INS Arighaat, which was commissioned into service on August 29. Previously, the K-4 missile had only been tested from submersible pontoons, making this launch from a fully operational submarine a key milestone for India’s naval capabilities.

As told to TOI, sources further indicated that the test results would be carefully analysed to determine whether the missile met its intended parameters. The missile test came after India issued a public area warning and notice to airmen (NOTAM) for an intermediate-range missile test in the Bay of Bengal, which was scheduled between November 27 and 30. This missile test was part of India’s broader effort to enhance its strategic defence posture.

INS Arighaat and its Strategic Importance

INS Arighaat, which is the second nuclear-powered submarine in India’s fleet, significantly strengthens the country’s nuclear deterrence. The submarine is equipped to carry nuclear-tipped ballistic