Why in the news?

  • The DRDO and the Strategic Forces Command (SFC) successfully test-fired the Intermediate Range Agni-Prime missile from a rail-based mobile launcher, under full operational conditions.

Agni Prime (Agni-P) Missile

  • Developed by: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
  • First Tested: June 2021 from Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha.
  • Type: Medium-range, surface-to-surface ballistic missile.
  • Range: 1,000 – 2,000 km.
  • Warhead: Can carry conventional and nuclear payloads (~1,000 kg).
  • Design:
    • Two-stage solid propellant missile.
    • Lighter and sleeker than earlier Agni variants (uses advanced composites).
    • Canisterised system – stored, transported, and launched from a canister → quick launch, better road/rail mobility.
    • Equipped with advanced navigation and guidance systems (Ring Laser Gyro, Inertial Navigation + satellite guidance).
  • Significance
    • Enhanced mobility: Road and rail-mobile, suited for flexible deployment.
    • Canisterisation: Improves survivability, operational readiness, and storage.
    • Strategic deterrence: Strengthens India’s nuclear deterrent under Credible Minimum Deterrence and No First Use policy.
    • Part of Agni series: Complements Agni-III to Agni-V for wider strike capability.