India has covertly launched its fourth indigenously developed nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, designated S-4*, which can deploy nuclear-tipped missiles. The first SSBN was launched in 2009 and commissioned in 2016. This year, INS Arighaat, the second SSBN, was inducted on August 29, 2024. The third, INS Aridhaman, is slated for commissioning in 2025. With its induction, India will achieve full second-strike nuclear capability. INS Aridhaman is equipped with K-4 missiles, capable of traveling 3,500 km.
