SOURCE: AFI
India has unexpectedly withdrawn the Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) it issued for the period of November 27 to November 30, raising questions about the missile test that was expected to occur during this time. Speculation is rife that a test of the K-4 Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missile (SLBM) was conducted on November 27, 2024, from the INS Arihant, India’s indigenously developed nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine. However, there has been no official confirmation from the Indian government or defense authorities, even after 12 hours of the reported test.
The K-4 SLBM is a cornerstone of India’s sea-based nuclear deterrence. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the missile boasts a range of approximately 3,500 kilometers, enabling it to target strategic assets deep inside an adversary’s territory while remaining concealed underwater. The K-4 enhances the second-strike capability of India’s nuclear triad, providing a credible deterrent against potential aggressors.
The INS Arihant is designed to carry up to four K-4 SLBMs, making it a key platform in India’s strategic forces. A successful test would signify significant progress in operationalizing India’s submarine-launched nuclear strike capability, which is critical for ensuring survivability in the event of a first strike.
The lack of official statements regarding the purported test has left room for speculation. Typically, India announces successful missile tests, particularly those involving strategic systems like the K-4, to highlight advancements in its defense capabilities. The withdrawal of the NOTAM and the absence of confirmation have fueled discussions that the missile may have been tested in a low-profile manner to avoid unnecessary geopolitical tensions.
If the K-4 test from INS Arihant is confirmed, it would underscore India’s progress in enhancing its sea-based deterrence capabilities, an essential element of its nuclear doctrine of credible minimum deterrence. The ability to conduct submerged launches from a nuclear-powered platform ensures survivability and strengthens India’s second-strike capability, a critical factor in maintaining strategic stability in the region.