India successfully test-fired the Agni-5 intermediate-range ballistic missile on Wednesday, demonstrating its strategic military capabilities, TOI reported. The missile, which has a range of up to 5,000 km, was launched from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha. According to the Ministry of Defence, the test validated all operational and technical parameters and was carried out under the aegis of the Strategic Forces Command. “Intermediate range ballistic missile ‘Agni 5’ was successfully test-fired from the integrated test range, Chandipur in Odisha on August 20,” the ministry said in a statement.
Agni-5 extends India’s long-range strike capability
The Agni-5 missile expands India’s strike reach to cover almost all of Asia, including northern China, and parts of Europe. It is part of the Agni missile series, which includes earlier versions,Agni-1 to Agni-4, already deployed with ranges from 700 km to 3,500 km.
The latest test comes roughly three and a half months after a military conflict between India and Pakistan and follows a previous Agni-5 launch conducted in March last year.
Key features of Agni-5 and missile tests
Agni-5 is an intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) with a range of up to 5,000 km. It is capable of carrying nuclear warheads and is launched from mobile platforms and the Integrated Test Range. The missile features high precision, enabled by advanced guidance systems, and is powered by a three-stage solid-fuel rocket, enhancing its mobility and readiness. Its coverage includes almost the entire Asian continent, including northern China, and extends to parts of Europe. Agni-5 plays a critical role in India’s nuclear deterrence strategy.
Recent missile tests reinforce India’s deterrence
India has recently conducted a series of missile tests aimed at strengthening its deterrence posture. In July, it test-fired the newly developed tactical missile Pralay, a short-range surface-to-surface missile designed to carry conventional warheads with a payload capacity of 500 to 1,000 kg.
Last month, nuclear-capable short-range ballistic missiles Prithvi-II and Agni-I were also successfully test-fired. The Prithvi-II has a range of around 350 km and can carry a payload of up to 500 kg, while the Agni-I has a range of 700–900 km and is capable of delivering a 1,000 kg payload. Both are integral to India’s nuclear arsenal.
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