Dhaka, Dec. 25 -- fired its K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) from the nuclear-powered submarine INS Arihant in the Bay of Bengal on Tuesday, significantly boosting its sea-based nuclear strike capability.

The missile, capable of hitting targets up to 3,500 km away, was launched off the coast of Vishakhapatnam and is designed to carry a 2.5-ton nuclear warhead. The K-4, commissioned into the Indian Navy on August 29, 2024, is the country's longest-range sea-launched strategic weapon and is derived from the Agni-III land-based missile, modified for submarine launch.

Experts said the test strengthens India's nuclear triad, allowing ballistic missile submarines to remain undetected on extended deterrence patrols. The 'K' seri...