India is developing the K-6 hypersonic submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) with a range of ~8,000 km and MIRV capability, designed for the upcoming S-5 class SSBNs. Developed by DRDO, it enhances India’s second-strike capability with near-impossible interception and rapid response features.

Description

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Context:

India is advancing its strategic defence with upcoming sea trials of the K-6 submarine-launched hypersonic ballistic missile.

About K-6 Missile:

Aspect	Details
Type	Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missile (SLBM)
Status	Under development
Developed by	DRDO’s Advanced Naval Systems Laboratory, Hyderabad
Designed for	S-5 Class SSBNs (Nuclear-powered Ballistic Missile Submarines)
Speed	Hypersonic (Up to Mach 7.5)
Range	~8,000 km
Warhead Type	Capable of carrying both nuclear and conventional warheads
Strategic Features	- Drastically reduced enemy reaction time - Difficult to intercept
MIRV Capability	Yes, Multiple warheads targeting different locations from one missile
Previous SLBMs in Series	- K-3: 1,000–2,000 km range - K-4: 3,500 km - K-5: 5,000–6,000 km
Inducted Missiles	K-4 and K-5 already inducted into the Indian Navy

Source: News.18

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PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Examine the strategic significance of the K-6 submarine-launched ballistic missile in enhancing India's nuclear deterrence capability. (150 words).