22nd March 2024 (9 Topics)
1
Mar
2
Mar
4
Mar
5
Mar
6
Mar
7
Mar
8
Mar
9
Mar
11
Mar
12
Mar
13
Mar
14
Mar
15
Mar
16
Mar
18
Mar
19
Mar
20
Mar
21
Mar
22
Mar
23
Mar
25
Mar
26
Mar
27
Mar
28
Mar
29
Mar
30
Mar
India's Advancement in Nuclear Capabilities: Implications and Challenges
Context:
India entered a small club of countries capable of delivering nuclear warheads on a single missile. This greatly enhances India’s second strike capability and acts as a deterrence measure.
Technological Breakthrough:
- Introduction of MIRV on Agni-V: India's recent test of the Agni-V missile equipped with multiple independently targetable re-entry vehicle (MIRV) technology marks a significant milestone in its nuclear weapons program.
- Mission Divyastra: Conducted under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), this test underscores India's entry into the small club of countries capable of delivering multiple nuclear warheads on a single missile.
- Enhanced Strategic Capability: The indigenous avionics systems and high accuracy sensor packages of the MIRV system ensure improved precision and strengthen India's second-strike capability, crucial for maintaining deterrence.
Strategic Significance:
- Focus on China: The choice of MIRV on Agni-V is strategically aimed at addressing security concerns vis-à-vis China, given the missile's extended range and ability to penetrate missile defenses.
- Completion of Nuclear Triad: India's development of MIRV technology follows the declaration of INS Arihant's successful deterrence patrol, completing India's nuclear triad and enhancing its strategic deterrence posture.
- Escalation Dynamics: However, this advancement raises concerns about escalation dynamics in the region, especially with neighbouring countries like China and Pakistan also pursuing MIRV technology, leading to a potential arms race.
Future Implications and Challenges:
- Deployment on Submarine-launched Missiles: The deployment of MIRV on submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) is the logical next step, further enhancing India's nuclear capabilities and strategic flexibility.
- Regional Dynamics: The development of MIRV technology by India, China, and Pakistan intensifies regional security dynamics, requiring careful management to prevent unintended escalation.
- Cost and Technology Intensiveness: The pursuit of advanced nuclear capabilities entails significant costs and technological investments, posing challenges in terms of resource allocation and sustainability.
You must be logged in to get greater insights. click here to login
Courses
Study
Notes
Home
Resources
More
