SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Indian Navy’s ambitious S5-class of ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs), each set to have a submerged displacement of around 13,000 tons, will be fitted with advanced submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) currently under development. While the Arihant and Arighat SSBNs are already operational with the B05/K-15 and K-4 SLBMs, the future S4, S4* (Star), and S5 submarines will bring enhanced deterrent capabilities, including a new generation of SLBMs.
To match the increased size and strategic role of the S5 class, India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is progressing on an array of SLBMs with significantly extended ranges and payload capacities.
The development of the K-5 and K-6 SLBMs, intended for the larger S4 and S4* submarines, is reported to be underway. Partial developmental trials for the K-5 SLBM have already commenced, though the program details remain classified. Sources indicate that the full scope of the K-5’s development and subsequent production could take several more years. While the K-6 remains in the early stages of development, its specifics are similarly under wraps.
DRDO has reportedly begun work on even more advanced SLBMs, the K-7 and K-8, expected to be tailored for the S5-class submarines. The S5’s larger size offers a strategic advantage, enabling it to operate farther from India’s coast and maintain stealth while retaining global strike capabilities. While technical details of the K-7 and K-8 are closely guarded, these SLBMs are anticipated to have ranged between 9,000 and 13,000 kilometres, placing them among an elite class of intercontinental ballistic missile systems capable of targeting any location worldwide.
The development of the S5 class and its complement of high-range SLBMs represents a significant enhancement in India’s second-strike nuclear capabilities. By equipping its submarines with advanced, long-range SLBMs, India strengthens its nuclear triad and reinforces a credible deterrent. This not only extends India’s reach but allows for greater flexibility in operational deployment, enabling these submarines to patrol in locations far removed from potential adversaries while retaining the ability to strike back.
The projected ranges for the K-7 and K-8 SLBMs mark a major advancement, positioning India’s SSBN fleet within the rare echelon of nuclear powers with true global strike capability from a secure underwater platform. By aligning these advanced SLBMs with the S5 class, India aims to ensure that its nuclear deterrent remains survivable and effective against any global threat.
While India’s SLBM programs have progressed steadily, detailed updates on each missile’s development status are scarce. Given the critical nature of these programs, specifics such as test results, production timelines, and operational status remain classified. The partial trials of the K-5 SLBM, however, indicate steady progress and further updates on the K-6 may soon emerge.
NOTE : Article cannot be reproduced without written permission of idrw.org in any form even for YouTube Videos to avoid Copy right strikes. Websites doing illegal reproductions will get DMCA and Legal Notices.