The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted the launch of the new-generation ballistic missile, Agni-Prime, on Wednesday evening.
The launch, witnessed by senior military officials including Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan and the Chief of Strategic Forces Command, took place from Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha.
The Agni-Prime, a two-stage, canisterised missile, represents a leap forward in India's missile technology.
This nuclear-capable variant of the Agni class boasts a range of 1,000 to 2,000 kilometres, making it a potent addition to the nation's arsenal.
Crucially, the Agni-Prime is significantly lighter than its predecessors, offering greater mobility and deployment flexibility.
Reports suggest it weighs at least 50% less than the Agni-3 missile, a testament to advancements in material science and engineering.
This lighter weight is attributed to the use of a new generation of propulsion systems, further enhancing the missile's operational efficiency.
The canisterised design offers distinct advantages. It allows for transportation by road and rail, significantly reducing deployment time compared to older, bulkier missiles.
Additionally, canisterisation facilitates longer storage periods, ensuring launch readiness. Furthermore, the Agni-Prime reportedly employs a cold launch mechanism and possesses salvo mode capability, potentially enabling multiple launches in rapid succession.
This successful launch marks the culmination of years of dedicated research and development by DRDO scientists followed by a series of rigorous tests, with the first launch conducted in 2021 and subsequent tests carried out in December 2021 and June 2023.
The June 2023 launch notably marked the first successful night launch of the Agni-Prime, showcasing its versatility and all-weather operational capability.
The success of the Agni-Prime launch coincides with India's recent achievement of the first flight test of the indigenously developed Agni-5 missile.
This intercontinental ballistic missile boasts a range exceeding 5,000 kilometres, placing strategic targets across a vast swathe of Asia, including parts of Europe, within its reach.
As per the defense ministry, the test has fulfilled all trial objectives, confirming the dependable performance, as verified by data collected from various range sensors stationed at diverse locations.
Subsequent to the launch, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh extended congratulations to DRDO, SFC, and the armed forces for the triumphant test flight. He remarked that the successful development and integration of the missile will serve as a significant force multiplier for the military.
- Agni Prime overview:
- The 'Agni Prime' or 'Agni-P' represents a nuclear-capable, next-generation advancement within the Agni missile series.
- It operates as a two-stage canisterised missile with an impressive maximum range spanning from 1,000 to 2,000 km.
- Key features:
- The 'Agni Prime' is notably lighter than its predecessors within the Agni series, weighing at least 50 per cent less than the Agni 3 missile.
- It boasts updated guidance and propulsion systems, enhancing its overall capabilities.
- Transport and storage:
- Its canisterised design enables convenient transportation via road and rail, facilitating extended storage periods.
- This feature significantly reduces the time required for preparation and launch, enhancing operational efficiency.
- Launch mechanism:
- The missile employs a cold launch mechanism, enabling it to be fired in salvo mode, further enhancing its versatility.
- Testing and development:
- The first test of the 'Agni Prime' occurred in 2021, followed by a subsequent test six months later in December.
- Last year in June, the DRDO successfully conducted the inaugural night launch of the 'Agni Prime' missile.
- Agni-5 comparison:
- India recently accomplished the inaugural flight test of the indigenous Agni-5 missile, boasting an impressive range of up to 5,000 km.
- These missiles possess the capability to target a significant portion of Asia, including the northernmost region of China, as well as select areas within Europe.
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