Agni-3 Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM) Successfully Test-Fired

Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile Agni-3 was successfully test-fired by DRDO from the integrated test range Chandipur Odisha. It was carried out under the aegis of the strategic force command. It is a crucial component of India’s nuclear triad. The flight test met all the operational parameters and validated the consistency of the weapon system. The successful launch reinforces India's policy of having a "Minimum Credible Deterrence" with a commitment to "No First Use."

Key specification of Agni-III

The Agni-3 is a surface-to-surface ballistic missile developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Following are the key features 

• Type: Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM).

• Propulsion: Two-stage solid-propellant engine, solid fuel allows for faster reaction times and easier storage compared to liquid-fueled missiles.

• Range: It has a strike range of 3000 to 3500 Km which make it capable of reaching targets deep within neighboring territories.

• Payload Capacity: It is designed to carry both conventional and nuclear warheads weighing up to 1.5 tonnes.

• Dimensions: The missile is approximately 17m long with a diameter of 2m and weighs around 50 tonnes.

• Accuracy: Equipped with high-precision navigation systems which is based on Ring Laser Gyro-based Inertial Navigation Syste. The Agni-3 ensures a high degree of circular error probable (CEP) accuracy

• Launch Platform: It can be launched from rail-based mobile launchers, providing it with high mobility and survivability against first-strike attempts.

• Advance Monitoring System: Advanced tracking systems, including radar, telemetry stations, and electro-optical systems located along the coast, monitored the missile's performance throughout its flight path.

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Strategic Significance: 

• Agni-3 can be launched from a rail-based mobile platform, it can be moved across the country’s vast railway network, making it difficult for adversaries to track or target before a launch and Agni–3 has high survivability. 

• The Agni-3 is shorter and more compact than its predecessor Agni-2, which makes it easier to transport and deploy.

• Agni-3 has Re-entry Technology, features advanced heat shield technology to ensure the warhead survives the intense temperatures experienced when re-entering the Earth's atmosphere at high speeds.

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