India greatly increased its capacity for strategic deterrence on Saturday by successfully conducting a flight test of the Agni-5 ballistic missile fitted with Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology. The test was conducted in Odisha from Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island.
The missile successfully delivered several warheads to several targets dispersed over a large area in the Indian Ocean Region, according to the Defense Ministry. The missile’s course was tracked by tracking devices both at sea and on land to ensure that all mission goals were met.
The DRDO-developed Agni-5 features a three-stage solid-fuel engine and a range of more than 5,000 kilometers. MIRV capability increases operational effectiveness by enabling a single missile to carry several nuclear warheads that can strike distinct targets.
Under “Mission Divyastra,” India tested the Agni-5 MIRV system for the first time in March 2024, becoming one of the few countries with this cutting-edge technology. The test’s success, according to Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, represents a significant improvement in India’s defense readiness.
In addition to its land, air, and sea-based strategic capabilities, the development enhances India’s nuclear triad capacity.
Source – Hindustan Times
