India Successfully Test-Fires ‘Agni 5’ Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile

India on Wednesday successfully test-fired its Agni-5 ballistic missile from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur, Odisha, reaffirming the country’s long-range strategic strike capabilities.

The Defence Ministry said the launch validated “all operational and technical parameters” and was carried out under the aegis of the Strategic Forces Command.

The missile tested is a variant of the Agni-5, India’s intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) with a range of over 7,000 km. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the system has seen continuous upgrades. Reports in June indicated DRDO is working on an extended-range version, capable of reaching up to 7,500 km.

The last trial of Agni-5, on March 11, 2024, showcased multiple independently targetable re-entry vehicle (MIRV) technology, allowing the missile to deliver several warheads at different targets. Telemetry and radar stations had then confirmed the success of that mission.

India first tested the Agni-5 on April 19, 2012, since then, the missile has become a cornerstone of India’s nuclear deterrent.

Capable of carrying a nuclear warhead of up to 1.5 tonnes, the Agni-5 incorporates lightweight composite materials for greater efficiency. Its guidance relies on a ring laser gyroscope-based inertial navigation system (RLG-INS) and micro-inertial navigation system (MINGS), augmented by NavIC and GPS satellites for pinpoint accuracy.

Powered by a three-stage solid-fuel propulsion system, the missile is launched from a canisterised platform, enabling quick deployment, easy transport, and enhanced survivability. Upgrades in recent years have further strengthened its avionics, re-entry shielding, and guidance systems.

With Wednesday’s test, India reaffirmed its steady progress in advanced missile technologies and strategic preparedness.

Team BharatShakti