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Recently, India carried out a successful launch of Agni-3 Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile from A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Island in Odisha.
About Agni-3
- The test of Agni-3 was a part of routine user training launches which are performed under the aegis of the Strategic Forces Command.
- Agni-3 was first tested on 9 July 2006. However, it was not a successful launch.
- The missile test-fired successfully on its second flight which took place in 2007.
- The missile also performed as per the standards in its third consecutive launch which took place in 2008.
- The 16-meter-long missile, weighing more than 48 tonnes, has a range of over 3000 kilometers and is capable of carrying a payload of over 1.5 tonnes.
- Capability: Due to its high range of circular error probable(CEP), the Agni-3 missile is known as the world’s most accurate strategic ballistic missile of its range class.
- With a high range of efficiency in its target, the warhead can be a lethal weapon for the enemy.
- The accuracy of the nuclear warhead also provides an opportunity of deploying a larger number of nuclear forces using less fusion material.
- Significance: Agni series of missiles constitute the backbone of India’s nuclear weapons delivery which also includes the Prithvi short-range ballistic missiles and fighter aircraft.
Source: IE
