Background
India possesses IRBMs as does its strategic adversary Pakistan. The border dispute with Pakistan over the Kashmir region makes it even more difficult to estimate strategic developments. Although it is changing, India remains dependent on Russia for the joint development of high-tech weapons.
India’s first nuclear test was conducted in 1974 and it tested its first nuclear weapon in 1998. It continues to steadily build its nuclear arsenal.
Current Developments
There are major weapons acquisitions programs under way. The USA and Russia are the major suppliers of modern technologies. It can be expected that the economic crisis will slow some of these programs. At this time the Indian Navy is not yet nuclear capable.
Capabilities
India has over 100 IRBMs and is advancing its capabilities by developing the Agni-III IRBM. India currently possesses operational SLBMs. India’s s growing strategic role can also be seen in some of the current acquisitions.