India deploys first 12 nuclear warheads under sea and underground, breaking from tradition

India has made a significant shift in its nuclear posture by operationally deploying at least 12 nuclear warheads in undersea and underground systems for the first time, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. The think tank's latest report indicates that India has partially moved away from its traditional 'no first use' policy by placing some warheads on a 'ready to fire' status.

According to the SIPRI report, India previously kept nuclear warheads and missiles separate to avoid accidental launches during peacetime. However, recent changes have integrated some warheads with submarine and underground silo-based missile systems, making India's nuclear submarine fleet and ballistic missile systems more rapidly responsive.

The report states that India's total nuclear warhead count has risen to approximately 190, organised under a nuclear triad structure combining land, air and sea forces.

Analysts say warheads pre-mated with missiles would allow rapid response during any crisis, reducing launch preparation time but also increasing the risk of escalation and tension.

The report notes that this move should not be seen solely as an offensive strategy but also as defensive preparation, particularly considering the regional security situation.

SIPRI said India's declared 'no first use' policy formally remains in place. Under this policy, India will not launch a nuclear attack first but will deliver a swift and powerful retaliatory strike if its territory or forces come under nuclear attack.

According to SIPRI, this change is primarily aimed at enhancing rapid response capability, not a declaration of direct arms race.

Experts suggest this shift comes amid strategic competition in the Indian Ocean region and increasing military capabilities of neighbouring countries, which could make South Asia's security situation more sensitive. However, some analysts argue this is primarily a strategy to strengthen deterrence, ensuring potential attackers think twice before striking.