Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted flight testing of the next-generation ballistic missile “Agni Prime” on June 7 night from Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha.
“This was the first pre-induction night launch conducted by the users after three successful developmental trials of the missile, validating the accuracy and reliability of the system. Range Instrumentation like Radar, Telemetry and Electro Optical Tracking Systems were deployed at different locations, including two down-range ships, at the terminal point to capture flight data covering the entire trajectory of the vehicle,” a Defence Ministry statement said.
The test, which was observed by senior DRDO and Strategic Forces Command personnel, cleared the way for its addition to the nation’s medium arsenal, the statement said, adding “during the flight test, all objectives were successfully demonstrated.”
According to the DRDO, the Agni-P is a two-stage canisterized solid propellant ballistic missile with a dual redundant navigation and guiding system. It was tested for the first time in June 2021 and has a range of 1000 to 2000 km. Compared to all previous missiles in the Agni series, it is lighter.
The Prithvi short-range ballistic missiles and fighter Aircraft are also part of India’s nuclear weapons delivery system, which is supported by the Agni series of missiles. Additionally, India’s nuclear triad has been completed, and its second strike capability has been operationalized , with Nuclear ballistic missile submarine INS Arihant is now conducting deterrence patrols.
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the DRDO and the Armed Forces for the success as well as the copy-book performance of the New Generation Ballistic Missile Agni Prime.
Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Secretary Department of Defence R&D & Chairman DRDO, expressed gratitude for the efforts made by teams of DRDO laboratories and the users involved in the test launch.
