K-5 Missile

Full Specifications

K-5 SLBM: India’s Long-Range Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missile

The K-5 represents a significant advancement in India’s sea-based nuclear deterrent as a next-generation submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM). Designed to enhance the survivability of India’s nuclear triad, this missile enables submerged launches from strategic submarines, providing a credible second-strike option against potential adversaries. As a long-range system comparable to India’s Agni-5 land-based ICBM, the K-5 is engineered for high reliability in contested maritime environments, particularly in the Indian Ocean region.

Manufacturer

The K-5 is developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), with contributions from various public and private sector entities under the country’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. Development began around 2015, building on the success of the shorter-range K-4 SLBM. Recent progress includes successful static motor tests and submerged platform evaluations.

Speed and Range

The K-5 achieves hypersonic speeds during its ballistic trajectory, with reports indicating capabilities up to Mach 7 or higher in terminal phases. Its operational range is estimated at 5,000–8,000 km, allowing Indian submarines to target distant strategic locations while remaining in protected bastions like the Bay of Bengal.

Cost/Price

Exact costs for the K-5 program remain classified. However, similar advanced SLBM development and production programs typically involve significant investment in the hundreds of millions per unit when factoring in R&D, testing, and integration with next-generation SSBNs like the S-5 class. Operational deployment is anticipated in the late 2020s.

The missile features solid-fuel propulsion for rapid preparation and launch, advanced countermeasures against missile defenses, and potential Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicle (MIRV) technology. Its design prioritizes stealthy submarine integration, high accuracy, and penetration of sophisticated air defense systems, bolstering India’s strategic posture in the Indo-Pacific.