Successful Test of Agni-Prime Ballistic Missile Marks Milestone in India’s Missile Development Program

Successful Test of Agni-Prime Ballistic Missile Marks Milestone in India’s Missile Development Program

The Agni-Prime ballistic missile, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has recently undergone a successful flight test conducted by the Strategic Forces Command (SFC) from the Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha. This test marks another milestone in India’s missile development program.

Test Details

  • Date and Location: The test took place around 7pm on Wednesday from the Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha.
  • Test Outcome: The trial objectives were successfully met, validating the reliable performance of the missile. Data from various range sensors, including two downrange ships, confirmed its performance.

Observers

  • The launch was witnessed by senior officials including the Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of SFC, and representatives from DRDO and the Army.

Missile Specifications

  • Type: Agni-Prime is a two-stage canisterised solid propellant ballistic missile.
  • Guidance System: It is equipped with a dual redundant navigation and guidance system.
  • Range: Agni-Prime has a range of 1,000-2,000 km.
  • Weight: It is lighter compared to previous Agni series missiles.

Development History

  • Agni-Prime was first tested in June 2021.
  • In June 2023, the first pre-induction night launch was conducted, following three successful developmental trials.
  • The missile’s accuracy and reliability have been validated through these tests.

Significance

  • The Agni series, including Agni-Prime, plays a crucial role in India’s nuclear weapons delivery system.
  • It complements other systems like the Prithvi short-range ballistic missiles and fighter aircraft.
  • India has achieved its nuclear triad and operationalized its second-strike capability with assets like the INS Arihant ballistic missile submarine.

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):

  1. When was the Agni-Prime ballistic missile successfully flight-tested?
    A) June 2021
    B) June 2023
    C) April 2024
    D) May 2022
    Answer: C) April 2024
  2. What is the range of the Agni-Prime missile?
    A) 500-1,000 km
    B) 1,000-2,000 km
    C) 2,000-3,000 km
    D) 3,000-4,000 km
    Answer: B) 1,000-2,000 km
  3. Which organization developed the Agni-Prime missile?
    A) ISRO
    B) NASA
    C) DRDO
    D) SpaceX
    Answer: C) DRDO
  4. What capability does the INS Arihant ballistic missile submarine provide?
    A) First-strike capability
    B) Air defense capability
    C) Second-strike capability
    D) Satellite launch capability
    Answer: C) Second-strike capability