India Successfully Conducts Test-Firing of Agni-5 Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missile

What it signifies

Agni-V is India's farthest-reaching ballistic missile, categorized as an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) class, although it is officially referred to as an intermediate-range system.

Created by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for India's nuclear deterrent strategy.

Class & Kind

Category: Ballistic missile with nuclear capabilities designed for surface-to-surface targeting.

Type: Missile with three stages, solid fuel, and mobile launch capability via road or rail.

Scope & Load

Distance: Approximately 5,000–5,500 km, encompassing all of Asia and sections of Europe and Africa.

Payload: Capable of transporting a 1.5-ton nuclear warhead (either single or Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle – MIRV).

Characteristics of Technology

Solid Fuel Technology – Every phase utilizes solid fuel, improving preparedness.

MIRV Capability – Tested in March 2024, enables hitting several targets with a single launch.

Ring Laser Gyro Navigation & Micro Inertial Systems – Delivers precise accuracy.

Composite Materials – Lessen weight while enhancing structural integrity.

Canistered Launch System – Guarantees quicker activation and extended durability.

Agni Missile Range

Agni-I

Alcance: ~700–1,200 km

Type: Solid-fuel missile, single-stage, short-range.

Agni-II

Alcance: ~2,000–2,500 km

Type: Solid-fuel missile with two stages; mobile on road/rail.

Agni-III

Distancing: ~3,000–3,500 km

Type: A two-phase missile with nuclear capability, intended for greater infiltration.

Agni-IV

Distance: ~3,500–4,000 km

Attributes: Enhanced composite materials, upgraded navigation systems.

Agni-V

Distance: over 5,000 km; capable of MIRV.

Canister-driven, highly sophisticated in operation