SOURCE: AFI
India has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) for a potential naval missile test in the Bay of Bengal/Indian Ocean region. The notification specifies a designated area stretching 1,725 kilometers, with the test scheduled to occur between 7th and 30th November 2024. This development indicates preparations for the testing of a long-range missile system, potentially highlighting India’s focus on enhancing its maritime strike capabilities.
The Indian Navy has been actively integrating long-range cruise missiles into its arsenal, both on surface ships and submarines. A likely candidate for the test is the ITCM missile, a sub-sonic cruise missile with an extended range of 1,500 km, or the debut of a new indigenous long-range cruise missile currently under development.
The Indian Navy has been working on improving its underwater strike capabilities. The launch could test a submarine-launched cruise missile, such as a variant of SLCM or the K-15 (B-05) missile, which has been tested previously. These systems are critical to India’s second-strike capability and bolster the strategic deterrence posture.
The 1,725-km range indicated by the NOTAM suggests the missile system being tested is capable of striking deep into adversarial territory, enhancing India’s stand-off strike capabilities. If the test involves a submarine-launched platform, it would further signify advancements in India’s sea-based nuclear and conventional strike systems.