India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), its Missiles and Strategic Systems cluster in particular, seems determined to turn a new leaf. Monday’s successful trial of Agni V nuclear-capable missile tops a very successful year for India’s missile programme coming as it does in the wake of nearly two dozen tests of different types of tactical and strategic missiles since January this year.
Monday’s successful launch of Agni V—seventh test overall since India began developing the missile a decade ago and third this year alone—now makes it ready for induction in India’s Strategic Forces Command (SFC) soon, DRDO sources said. With a range beyond 5000 km, Agni V is considered a major deterrent against China since it can cover major cities and targets in India’s northern neighbour and adversary.
Agni-5, a three stage, solid fuel missile can carry a nuclear payload of 1.5 tonnes over a distance beyond 5000 km. It is the longest and heaviest of strategic missiles Indian scientists have developed in the Agni series. They comprise Agni I (range 700-900 km), Agni II (2000 km), Agni III (3500 km) Agni IV (4000 km) and Agni V (over 5000 km). Of these Agni I, II and III have already been inducted in the SFC while Agni IV and V are close to completing their development trials.Read More…
