India Successfully Test-Fires Agni-5 Ballistic Missile; Strengthens Strategic Deterrence

India on Wednesday successfully test-fired its indigenously developed intermediate-range ballistic missile Agni-5, capable of striking targets up to 5,000 kilometres away. The launch took place from the Chandipur range in Odisha, the Defence Ministry confirmed.

“The test validated all operational and technical parameters and was conducted under the aegis of the Strategic Forces Command,” the ministry said.

Missile Brings Asia and Parts of Europe Within Range

With its strike range, the Agni-5 missile can target almost the entire Asian continent, including northern China, and extend its reach into certain regions of Europe.

The tested variant is part of the Agni-5 ICBM family, which has a maximum strike capability of around 7,000 kilometres.

Reports earlier suggested that the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is working to upgrade its range to 7,500 kilometres.

Last year, India successfully carried out the maiden flight test of the MIRV-capable Agni-5 missile, which allows the system to carry and deliver multiple nuclear warheads independently.

This technology significantly strengthens India’s second-strike capability.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had praised DRDO scientists for their contribution to this strategic advancement.

Recent Missile Tests Strengthen Nuclear Deterrence

India has steadily advanced its missile arsenal. In March last year, the country tested the Agni-5, while in July, it successfully launched the ‘Pralay’ tactical missile, designed to carry conventional warheads over short ranges.

In recent months, India also test-fired nuclear-capable short-range ballistic missiles, Prithvi-II (350 km range, 500 kg payload) and Agni-I (700–900 km range, 1,000 kg payload).

Both missiles form a crucial part of India’s nuclear deterrence strategy.

India has already deployed the Agni missile series, ranging from Agni-I to Agni-IV (700–3,500 km).

Together with Prithvi and now Pralay, the Agni-5’s successful test strengthens India’s position as a regional power with credible long-range strike capabilities.

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