In a historic achievement, India has officially entered an exclusive club of nations with the successful maiden flight test of the indigenously developed Agni-5 missile, featuring Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology. Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) scientists for the groundbreaking mission, highlighting the significant enhancement in India’s strategic defence capabilities.
The MIRV technology equips the Agni-5 missile with the capability to split its warhead into multiple re-entry vehicles, enabling precise and targeted attacks. This advancement means a single missile can deliver multiple warheads, providing a significant leap in India’s nuclear deterrence capabilities.
The Agni-5 missile, categorized as an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), boasts an impressive range of 5,500 to 5,800 kilometers, making it a pivotal addition to India’s strategic defence arsenal. This achievement is particularly crucial for reinforcing India’s nuclear deterrence against potential threats from the eastern frontiers.
The Agni-5 surpasses its predecessor, Agni-III, in terms of range and capabilities, addressing the limitations that existed in covering the extreme eastern and northeastern regions of potential adversaries. India’s pursuit of a strengthened nuclear triad, capable of launching nuclear missiles from land, air, and sea, aligns with global best practices in strategic defence.
The Agni-V’s extensive striking range encompasses almost the entire Asian region, reaching the northernmost part of China and extending into some regions in Europe. The successful maiden flight test at its maximum operational range, exceeding 5,000 km, solidifies its place as the longest-range missile in India’s weapons program.
With the incorporation of MIRV technology, India now joins the elite league of nations possessing the Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicle capability. The cutting-edge system features indigenous avionics systems and high-precision sensor packages, ensuring the re-entry vehicles precisely hit their target points. This accomplishment underscores India’s technological prowess and signifies a monumental milestone in the nation’s strategic capabilities.
