The Indian Navy has strengthened its underwater warfare capabilities by ordering Kalibr-PL anti-ship cruise missiles. These missiles are designed to significantly enhance the firepower of the Navy's Kilo-class (Sindhughosh-class) submarine fleet, improving India's maritime deterrence, especially within the crucial Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
The Kalibr-PL, specifically the 3M-14K variant, is engineered for launch from submarines. This is distinct from the 3M-14T Kalibr-NK, a land-attack version deployed from surface ships. The procurement of the Kalibr-PL represents a key part of the Indian Navy's ongoing modernization program, focusing on equipping its submarines with advanced weaponry capable of engaging enemy targets at greater distances.
The surface-launched 3M-14T Kalibr-NK variant is known to possess a considerable range, estimated between 1,500 and 2,500 kilometers. While the precise range of the submarine-launched Kalibr-PL variant acquired by India remains undisclosed, it is expected to adhere to the guidelines of the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR). India is a signatory to the MTCR, an international agreement that aims to limit the proliferation of missiles and missile technology. The MTCR restricts the export of missiles capable of carrying a 500 kilogram payload for more than 300 kilometers.
However, adherence to MTCR guidelines is not expected to be a major constraint. Even if the Kalibr-PL's range is limited to under 1000 kilometers, it would still provide a considerable boost to the reach and striking power of India's submarine force.
The acquisition of these missiles provides Indian submarines with a powerful tool against enemy ships. The Kalibr-PL missiles are known for their ability to accurately strike both surface vessels and land-based targets. Integrating these missiles with the Kilo-class submarines, which are already a core component of India's underwater fleet, significantly boosts the nation's ability to deter potential threats at sea.
The Kilo-class submarines, known in India as the Sindhughosh-class, have a long track record of reliable service within the Indian Navy. The addition of the Kalibr-PL missiles adds a new level of operational flexibility, allowing these submarines to engage adversaries from much farther away than previously possible.
This procurement aligns with India's overall defence strategy, which emphasizes both the development of indigenous defence systems and the selective acquisition of advanced technology from other nations. The move also reflects India's strategic considerations in the context of regional security, where a strong naval presence is considered essential.
Specific details regarding the number of missiles purchased and the financial terms of the agreement have not been publicly released. The integration of the Kalibr-PL missiles into the Indian Navy is expected to begin in the near future, followed by operational testing to ensure their effectiveness. The addition of these weapons is likely to have a lasting effect on India's Strategic power in the IOR.
