The Coming of Age of India’s Nuclear Triad

Source: Carnegie India  |  Author: Dinakar Peri

India achieved a continuous at-sea nuclear deterrent with the commissioning of its third nuclear ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), INS Aridhaman. This ensures the operational presence required for an assured retaliatory strike under its no-first-use doctrine.

However, strategic gaps remain. India currently relies on short-range K-15 submarine-launched missiles and must urgently operationalize the longer-range K-4 to improve strike survivability. Furthermore, the Indian Navy faces a critical shortage of nuclear attack submarines (SSNs) needed for long-range endurance. With indigenous SSNs delayed until 2036 and China rapidly expanding its naval fleet, India must accelerate both its long-range missile and attack submarine programs.

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