Strategic missile Agni-4 successfully test fired

Tags: Science and Technology

India on 6 June successfully test-fired nuclear-capable long-range ballistic missile Agni-IV from APJ Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha.

• The test was part of the routine user training launch conducted under the aegis of Strategic Forces Command.

• The launch of the missile recognized all the operational parameters as well as the reliability of the system.

• This successful test reaffirms India's policy of having 'reliable minimum deterrence'.

• In May 2022, India successfully test-fired an extended range version of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile from a Sukhoi fighter jet.

• This was the first launch of the extended range version of the BrahMos missile from a Su-30MKI aircraft.

• About Agni-IV Missile 

• It is an intermediate range ballistic missile with a range of about 4,000 km.

• It is developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

• It can carry a payload of 1,000 kg and can reach an altitude of 900 km.

• The first flight test of Agni-4 took place on 10 December 2010.

• The missile crashed into the sea soon after launch because of errors in its control system.

• Features of Agni-IV Missile 

• It is a two-stage, solid-fueled missile weighing 17,000 kg.

• It is about 20 metres long and 1.2 metres in diameter at its lower stage.

• Agni class of missiles

• Agni I - Range of 700-800 km.

• Agni II - Range more than 2000 km.

• Agni III - Range of more than 2,500 Km.

• Agni IV - Range is more than 3,500 km and can fire from a road mobile launcher

• Agni V - The longest missile of the Agni series, with a range of over 5,000 km.

• These missiles are built under Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP).