India has successfully test-fired its most advanced nuclear-capable missile, Agni-5, from the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, Odisha, under the Strategic Forces Command. The launch met all operational and technical objectives, reaffirming India’s commitment to a credible minimum deterrence, according to the Ministry of Defence.

Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Agni-5 is now equipped with MIRV (Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle) technology, enabling a single missile to carry and deploy multiple nuclear warheads at different targets. This major upgrade significantly enhances India’s nuclear delivery capability.

Agni-5 Overview:

• Type: Intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM)

• Range: 5,000+ km, with DRDO developing extended variants up to 7,500 km

• Payload: Up to 1.5 tonnes nuclear warhead

• Propulsion: Three-stage solid-fuel system

• Launch Platform: Road-mobile, canisterised for rapid deployment and storage

• Guidance: Gyroscope-based sensors, NavIC, and GPS for precise targeting

• Materials: Lightweight composite for efficiency and improved performance

The missile’s MIRV technology allows multiple warheads to target distinct locations in a single launch, increasing strategic flexibility and penetrating enemy missile defenses. India first demonstrated MIRV capability in March 2024, and the August 2025 test further validates operational readiness.

Comparison with Agni Series:

• Agni-1 (700–900 km): Short-range, primarily targeting Pakistan

• Agni-2 (~2,000 km): Medium-range, deeper regional coverage

• Agni-3 & Agni-4 (2,500–3,500 km): Longer-range platforms, primarily for China

• Agni-5 (5,000+ km): Long-range, MIRV-enabled for multi-target nuclear deterrence

Agni-5 incorporates advanced technologies such as enhanced avionics, re-entry heat shielding, and precision guidance systems. Its canisterised launch system improves operational readiness and mobility, while the combination of NavIC and GPS navigation ensures high accuracy.

Strategic Implications:
The test has raised concerns in Pakistan, particularly from the Strategic Vision Institute (SVI), which warned Islamabad about potential risks to regional stability. The SVI highlighted India’s expanding nuclear and naval missile capabilities, accelerated after India joined the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) in 2016.

Future Developments:
DRDO is developing next-generation Agni upgrades, including:

• Increased missile range

• Higher warhead capacity

• Bunker-buster technology for hardened targets

Agni-5 solidifies India’s second-strike capability under its No First Use doctrine, enabling a decisive response to any nuclear aggression. It represents India’s most advanced missile technology, strengthening the strategic credibility of its nuclear deterrent and signaling India’s commitment to maintaining regional peace through credible strength.

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