In News:

India has successfully test-fired the Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM) Agni-3 from the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, Odisha, validating all operational and technical parameters. The launch was conducted under the aegis of the Strategic Forces Command, confirming the missile’s operational readiness.

What is Agni-3?

• Agni-3 is an indigenously developed Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM).
• It is a surface-to-surface missile and a key component of India’s land-based nuclear deterrent.
• Developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
• It has already been inducted into the armed forces and is operationally deployed under the Strategic Forces Command.

Key Technical Features

• Type: Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM)
• Range: 3,000–3,500 km
• Propulsion: Two-stage, solid-fuelled
• Payload Capacity: ~1.5 tonnes (1,500 kg)
• Warhead: Conventional or nuclear
• Estimated Nuclear Yield: 200–300 kilotons
• Length: 16.7 metres
• Diameter: 2 metres
• Launch Weight: ~48,300 kg

Guidance & Accuracy

• Uses strap-down inertial navigation system (INS) supported by GPS
• Accuracy: ~40 metres Circular Error Probable (CEP)
• Considered one of the most accurate strategic ballistic missiles in its range class

Structural & Design Highlights

• First Stage: Maraging steel motor case
• Second Stage: Carbon-fibre motor case
• Thrust Vector Control (TVC) in both stages for enhanced stability and precision

Launch & Mobility

• Launch Platforms: Road-mobile and rail-mobile launchers
• Enhances survivability, flexibility and second-strike capability

Strategic Objectives

• Ensures credible minimum deterrence
• Strengthens second-strike capability
• Provides strategic depth beyond short- and medium-range missiles
• Enhances deterrence across extended regional theatres

Agni Missile Series

Conceptualised under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP) in the 1980s

• Agni-I: 700–1,250 km
• Agni-II: 2,000–2,500 km
• Agni-III: 3,000–3,500 km
• Agni-IV: 3,000–4,000 km (advanced systems, field trials)
• Agni-V: ~5,000+ km (ICBM-class, canisterised, road-mobile)
• Agni-VI: Under development (expected 8,000–10,000 km; land & sea-based)
• Agni Prime: New-generation, lighter, canisterised missile (1,000–2,000 km)