India on Wednesday successfully test-fired the Agni-5 intermediate-range ballistic missile from Chandipur in Odisha. The Defence Ministry said, “The launch validated all operational and technical parameters. It was carried out under the aegis of the Strategic Forces Command.”
The missile has a range of 5,000 kilometres. This means it can cover almost all of Asia, including the northernmost parts of China, and even reach certain regions of Europe.
A Big Step for India’s Defence
The Agni-5 missile is developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Officials said the test proved India’s growing self-reliance and strength in advanced defence technology.
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The missile tested on Wednesday is a variant of the Agni-5 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) that can travel around 7,000 kilometres. Reports also suggest that DRDO is working on an upgrade to increase its range to 7,500 kilometres.
Prime Minister Modi Lauds DRDO Scientists
Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the scientists for their success. Last year, India had tested the MIRV (Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicle) version of Agni-5. This version can carry multiple nuclear warheads at the same time, making it even more advanced and difficult to defend against.
India’s Missile Arsenal
The successful Agni-5 test comes less than four months after India’s military conflict with Pakistan, though no official connection was made.
Currently, India has a strong missile arsenal:
- Agni-1 to Agni-4 missiles have ranges from 700 km to 3,500 km and are already deployed.
- Prithvi-II missile, tested last month, has a 350 km range and can carry nuclear or conventional warheads.
- Agni-1 missile can reach 700–900 km and carry a 1,000 kg payload.
Pralay missile, tested in July, is a tactical short-range missile that can carry 500–1,000 kg of conventional warheads.
Strategic Importance of Agni-5
The Agni-5 strengthens India’s nuclear deterrence strategy. With its long range, India can ensure security not only against neighbouring threats but also against distant adversaries.
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According to experts, India’s increasing missile capability makes its defence readiness very evident. The advancement of domestic technology in the defence industry under the “Make in India” initiative is also highlighted.
With continuous upgrades and successful tests, India is moving closer to having one of the most advanced missile defence systems in the world. The Agni-5 is not just a weapon but a symbol of India’s rising power on the global stage.
