Context:

Recently, India successfully test-fired the Agni-5 intermediate-range ballistic missile on August 20, 2025, from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha. The test, conducted under the Strategic Forces Command, confirmed that all operational and technical parameters were met. This launch involved a variant of the Agni-5, which is part of India’s intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) program developed by DRDO, with a range of up to 5,000 km.

About Agni-V missile:

Agni-V is India’s most advanced intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), designed to strengthen the country’s nuclear deterrence capabilities. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), it represents a major leap in India’s missile technology.

Key Features:

·         Type: Surface-to-surface intercontinental ballistic missile

·         Propulsion: Three-stage, solid-fuelled rocket engine

·         Range: Estimated between 5,000 to 5,500 km

·         Payload Capacity: Capable of carrying a 1.5-tonne nuclear warhead

·         Technology: Fire-and-forget system — once launched, it requires no further guidance

·         Mobility: Can be launched from mobile platforms, enhancing its survivability

·         Navigation: Equipped with high-accuracy ring laser gyroscopes and inertial navigation systems

On March 11, 2024, India conducted the first MIRVed test launch of Agni-5 from Kalpakkam in Tamil Nadu, validating its ability to carry and release multiple warheads. Warhead capacity: The missile is capable of carrying and firing up to three nuclear warheads simultaneously.

Implications of Agni-5 Missile Test: 

• The successful test reaffirms India’s credible minimum nuclear deterrent, especially in the context of its No First Use (NFU) policy. With a range of up to 5,500 km, Agni-5 covers all of China, parts of Europe, and Asia, reinforcing deterrence against adversaries.
• The test validates India’s capability to maintain and operate advanced three-stage solid-fuel ICBMs. Continuous testing demonstrates technological maturity, improved target accuracy, and integration of systems like MIRV (if deployed) in future versions.
• The launch sends a strong message amid ongoing regional security tensions, particularly with China. It asserts India’s position as a responsible nuclear power and a key player in Indo-Pacific security dynamics.

Development of Agni Missiles:

• The Agni missile series is one of India’s most significant achievements in defence technology, evolving over decades to form the backbone of the country’s strategic missile forces. The development began under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP), launched in 1983 by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
• Over the past decade, India has developed various versions of Agni Missile, which range from short-range Agni-I to the intercontinental Agni-V, with work on Agni-VI already underway.

About IGMDP:

• The IGMDP, a visionary initiative by DRDO, aimed to achieve self-reliance in missile technology. It included five missile systems: Agni (surface-to-surface ballistic missile), Prithvi (short-range missile), Akash (surface-to-air missile), Nag (anti-tank missile), and Trishul (short-range surface-to-air missile).
• The Agni missile started as a technology demonstrator, primarily for testing re-entry vehicle (RV) technology, which is essential for delivering nuclear warheads over long distances.

 Conclusion:

The successful test of the Agni-5 reinforces India’s strategic deterrence capabilities and its commitment to maintaining a credible minimum nuclear deterrent. As regional and global security dynamics evolve, such trials demonstrate the technological maturity of India’s missile programs and its focus on strengthening national defense preparedness.