Why in the News?
India successfully tested the K 4 submarine launched ballistic missile from INS Arighaat in the Bay of Bengal, strengthening its sea based nuclear deterrence.
About K 4 Missile
- Also known as Kalam 4 (K 4)
• Nuclear capable intermediate range submarine launched ballistic missile (SLBM)
• Designed mainly for deployment on Arihant class submarine
• Indigenously developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation - Each Arihant class submarine can carry four K 4 missiles
Key Features
- Length about 12 metres
• Weight around 17 tonnes
• Two stage solid fuel propulsion system
• Maximum range around 3,500 km
• Payload capacity up to 2 tonnes, including nuclear warhead
Prelims Pointers
- K 4 is an SLBM, not a cruise missile
• Operates from nuclear powered submarines
• Uses NavIC for navigation support
• Part of India’s indigenous strategic weapons programme
| Consider the following statements: (2023)
1. Ballistic missiles are jet-propelled at subsonic speeds throughout their flights, while cruise missiles are rocket-powered only in the initial phase of flight. 2. Agni-V is a medium-range supersonic cruise missile, while BrahMos is a solid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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