India Successfully Test-Fires Agni-5 Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missile

Agni-5 is an intermediate-range, ballistic missile which India has successfully tested at Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha. It was launched under Strategic Forces Command validating all the technical and operational parameters. DRDO designed Agni-5 that has a range capability of 5,000 km aimed at boosting strategic deterrence in India. This experiment will build on the March 2024 test that will include next-generation MIRV technology that will support a multi-target strike. It is the latest in India expanding its list of missiles in an era that cries out regional security challenges.

Context

• Strategic Security Requirements: India also has a requirement to deal with its long-standing regional security concerns including those posed by China and Pakistan that require credible long-range deterrence.

• Technical Enhancement: Agni-5 has advanced guidance and strike features that comprise MIRV which increases precision and deterrence ability.

• Geopolitical Importance: The test is an indicator of Indian determination to sustain credible minimum deterrence as a part of its stated, No First Use of nuclear weapons policy.

Key Points

The features of agni-5 Missile

• Distance: 5,000 -ish km (intercontinental class).

• DRDO design; Indigenously developed and equipped with an advanced propulsion/ guidance system.

• Solid-fuel missile, road- and rail-based and raising operational flexibility.

Strategic Role

• Enhances India nuclear deterrence force which encompasses the whole of Asia and much of Europe.

• Improves the second strike capability as per the Indian doctrine formulation.

• Pays off as a neutralization to the Chinese long-range arsenal of missiles.

Recent Test Results (August 20,2025)

• It was done at Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, Odisha.

• Verified all the technical and operational parameters.

• Introduced on the shoulders of Strategic Forces Command.

Past Trials

• March 11, 2024: The Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) test which would allow more than one strike per a single missile.

• Repeated tests portray reliability, robustness and system preparedness.

Conclusion

The test on Agni-5 is a success story of gradual advancement in self-sustaining missile technology and strategic self-defense in India. Through the verification of improved operational parameters India has been able to show its commitment to credible minimum deterrence even in retaining its nuclear doctrine. This achievement increases the national security and the strategic position of India in the world.