New Generation Ballistic Missile Agni-Prime. Conducted by the tri-service Strategic Forces Command (SFC) and the (DRDO)

India has achieved a significant milestone with the successful flight test of the New Generation Ballistic Missile Agni-Prime. Conducted by the tri-service Strategic Forces Command (SFC) and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), this test took place on April 3, 2024, off the coast of Odisha from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island.

 

Here are some key details about the Agni-Prime missile:

 

Strike Range: The Agni-Prime is a nuclear-capable ballistic missile with a strike range between 1,000 to 2,000 kilometres.

Pre-Induction Night Launch: This test marked the first pre-induction night launch of the Agni-Prime. It was conducted by the SFC, which oversees India's nuclear arsenal, and it validated the accuracy and reliability of the system.

 

Replacing Agni-I: The Agni-Prime is designed to gradually replace the Agni-I (700-km) missiles in the SFC's arsenal. It joins other missiles like Prithvi-II (350-km), Agni-II (2,000-km), Agni-III (3,000-km), and Agni-4 (4,000-km).

 

Advanced Features: The Agni-Prime incorporates new propulsion systems, composite rocket motor casings, and advanced navigation and guidance systems. Notably, it also uses a canister-launch system, similar to India's first intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), the Agni-V (over 5,000-km). The canister-launch system allows the missile to be stored for extended periods, transported swiftly, and fired from various locations¹.

 

Strategic Significance:

Deterrence: Alongside the Agni-V, the Agni-Prime enhances India's deterrence capabilities against both China and Pakistan. While Agni-V covers all of China within its strike range, Agni-Prime seems specifically developed with Pakistan in mind¹.

 

Operational Flexibility: The canister-launch capability provides the armed forces with operational flexibility, allowing them to store the missile, transport it efficiently, and deploy it as needed¹.

 

Congratulations to DRDO, SFC, and the Armed Forces for this successful test, which reinforces India's security preparedness and defence capabilities.