The Indian Navy’s indigenously built nuclear-powered submarine INS Arihant has successfully tested a submarine launched ballistic missile (SLBM).
This was announced by the Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) in a media statement.
The SLBM’s user training test-launch was carried out in the Bay of Bengal region on 14 October.
According to the Indian MoD, the weapon system was tested to a ‘pre-determined range’ and was successful in intercepting the target area with high precision.
This test allowed the Indian Navy to assess and verify various technological and operational capabilities of the missile system.
The latest test also helped in determining the competency of INS Arihant’s crew members, while simultaneously validating the Indian Navy’s ship submersible ballistic, nuclear (SSBN) submarine programme.
In 2013, the Indian Navy completed development trials of its first SLBM K-15 Sagarika (B05), for deployment with the nuclear-powered submarine INS Arihant.
In another development, the Indian Navy’s Talwar-class guided missile frigate INS Tarkash has participated in the seventh iteration of joint India-Brazil-South Africa maritime (IBSAMAR) exercise.
The trilateral exercise was conducted in Port Gqeberha, South Africa between 10 and 12 October.
It aimed to enhance the military training interoperability of the participating assets and forces to combat maritime crimes, to safeguard Sea Lines of Communication as well as to bolster maritime relations between the three nations.
Apart from INS Tarkash, the Indian Navy’s Chetak light utility helicopter (LUH) and Marine Commandos (MARCOS) special forces personnel also took part in the drills.
The exercise was divided into two phases, including harbour and the sea phase.
The harbour phase involved professional lectures, exchanges, joint diving training and cross-deck visits, while the sea phase included a wide range of maritime operations.
