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India has taken a significant step forward in its defense capabilities with the launch of its fourth indigenously built nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), designated S-4. The launch, which reportedly took place at the Ship Building Centre in Visakhapatnam, signifies a major milestone in India's growing naval fleet. This event comes shortly after the inauguration of a Very Low Frequency (VLF) naval communication station in Telangana, aimed at enhancing submarine communication capabilities, an essential element for strategic operations.
The launch of the S-4 is a strategic move that underscores India's commitment to strengthening its nuclear deterrence capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. This submarine is equipped with K-4 ballistic missiles, capable of striking targets up to 3,500 kilometers away. The addition of this powerful weapon system to India's arsenal significantly enhances its ability to deter potential adversaries and assert its presence in the region.
The launch of the S-4 follows the commissioning of INS Arighat on August 29, further bolstering India's SSBN fleet. With the third submarine, INS Aridaman, expected to enter service in 2025, India's nuclear submarine capabilities are rapidly expanding. In a parallel effort to enhance its maritime defense, the Cabinet Committee on Security has approved plans for the Indian Navy to construct two additional nuclear-powered attack submarines, further strengthening its deterrence posture against potential adversaries in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Meanwhile, China has also been actively expanding its own fleet of nuclear submarines. The Chinese navy currently operates multiple classes of SSBNs, including the Jin-class (Type 094), equipped with the JL-2 ballistic missiles, boasting a range of approximately 4,000 kilometers. This places China in a robust position regarding nuclear deterrence capabilities. China's substantial investments in submarine technology reflect its strategic ambition in regional and global contexts, particularly in the Indo-Pacific.
As both India and China continue to develop their underwater capabilities, the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific region remains a key focus in international security dynamics. The launch of the S-4 signifies India's commitment to maintaining strategic stability and deterring potential threats. This development also highlights the growing strategic competition between India and China, as both nations seek to project their power and influence in the region.