The news has been buzzing with the successful test-firing of the Agni-P (Prime) missile off the coast of Odisha, Balasore. Carried out by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) from Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam island, this event marks a significant achievement in India’s missile technology advancements.
Overview of Agni-P Missile
Representing a new generation of the Agni class missiles, Agni-P is an advanced variant developed under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP). It is a canisterised missile, meaning it is contained within a sealed, protective case that provides increased mobility and reduced launch times. This missile’s range capability lies between 1,000 and 2,000 km, making it a major addition to the country’s defense capabilities.
Technological Advancements
Agni-P incorporates numerous advanced technologies, including new propulsion systems, innovative guidance and control mechanisms, cutting-edge navigation systems, and use of composite materials. The introduction of these technologies not only enhances the missile’s performance but also improves its parameters such as manoeuvring and accuracy.
Agni Class of Missiles and IGMDP
Agni class missiles form the backbone of India’s nuclear launch capability. The range of other Agni Missiles are:
– Agni I: Range of 700-800 km
– Agni II: More than 2000 km
– Agni III: Over 2,500 Km
– Agni IV: Exceeds 3,500 km, can fire from a road mobile launcher
– Agni-V: An Inter-Continental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) with a range of over 5,000 km
The IGMDP, conceived by Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam in 1983 and approved by the Government of India, was aimed at enabling India to achieve self-sufficiency in missile technology. The program developed 5 different missiles and was completed in March 2012.
Canister Based Launch System
The canister based launch system provides operational flexibility along with being a safe and efficient storage and transportation container for the missile. There are two types of canister launch systems – hot and cold launch. Cold launch systems use a gas generator to expel the missile, making it safer in the event of missile failure. Agni V uses a cold launch system.
Nuclear Triad and SSBN
A nuclear triad is a military structure made up of land-launched nuclear missiles, nuclear-armed submarines, and strategic aircraft like Rafale and Brahmos that carry nuclear bombs and missiles. DRDO recently tested a 3,500-km range submarine-launched ballistic missile, K-4, off the Visakhapatnam coast. These missiles will be fitted on the Arihant class of indigenous ballistic missile nuclear submarines (SSBN), providing India the capability to launch nuclear weapons while submerged in Indian waters.
In recent years, India has been successful in filling out its nuclear triad – an achievement that holds significant importance given India’s No-First-Use policy. This policy reserves the right to a massive retaliation if struck with nuclear weapons first.
