India's Operationally Deployed Nuclear Warheads
Prelims:
International Relations, Defence & Security
Mains:
GS Paper II-International Relations, GS Paper III-Internal Security,
Defence
Current relevance:
The Stockholm International Peace Research
Institute (SIPRI), in its 2026 Yearbook, reported that 12 of
India's estimated 190 nuclear warheads are now operationally deployed.
Highlights:
1.
For the first time SIPRI 2026 yearbook classified a
portion of India's arsenal as operationally deployed.
2.
“Operationally Deployed” warheads are nuclear
weapons mated with delivery systems and maintained in a state of readiness,
enabling rapid deployment upon authorised use, without implying imminent
launch.
3.
Arihant-class SSBNs:
Arihant-class nuclear-powered ballistic missile
submarines (SSBNs) have strengthened India's sea-based nuclear
deterrence by enhancing the survivability of its nuclear forces through
continuous deterrence patrols.
4.
Canisterised Agni Missiles:
India's increasing reliance on canisterised
Agni-series missiles enhances operational readiness by keeping the missiles
sealed, fuelled, and ready for rapid launch.
5.
India's Nuclear Doctrine:
It was first announced through the Draft Nuclear
Doctrine (DND) prepared by the National Security Advisory Board (NSAB) in
1999 and was formally adopted with modifications by the Cabinet
Committee on Security (CCS) in January 2003.
Key Features:
1.
India follows the No First Use (NFU) policy, under
which nuclear weapons will be used only in retaliation to a nuclear attack
on India or its armed forces.
2.
It commits not to use nuclear weapons against non-nuclear
weapon states.
3.
The principle of Credible Minimum Deterrence, maintaining
only the minimum nuclear arsenal required to deter adversaries while avoiding
an arms race.
Source: THE HINDU - https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/what-indias-12-operationally-deployed-nuclear-warheads-really-mean/article71161400.ece