The Indian defense sector recently achieved a significant milestone with the successful execution of the night trials of the Agni-5 ballistic missile. This missile, which is nuclear-capable, plays a crucial role in India’s self-defense systems.
A Closer Look at The Agni-5 Missile
Developed under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP), the Agni-5 is an advanced, surface-to-surface ballistic missile. Renowned for its ‘fire-and-forget’ attribute, this missile once launched, cannot be stopped unless intercepted by another missile.
The missile’s strategic specifications make it a formidable asset – one that can hit targets beyond a 5000 km distance.
The Agni Series: Backbone of India’s Defensive Might
The Agni missile class forms an integral part of India’s nuclear launch capabilities and self-defense systems. This class includes the short-range Prithvi ballistic missiles, submarine-launched missiles, and fighter aircraft. Developed by the Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Agni series boasts of five types of missiles. These include:
Agni I: With a range of 700-800 km.
Agni II: Capable of spanning more than 2000 km.
Agni III: Can reach more than 2,500 Km.
Agni IV: Travels more than 3,500 km and can be fired from a road mobile launcher.
Agni-V: The longest-ranging Inter-Continental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) in the series, with a range of over 5,000 km.
Understanding the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme
Conceptualized by the esteemed scientist Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, the IGMDP aimed to establish India’s self-sufficiency in missile technology. Approved by the Indian government in 1983, the program identified the defense forces’ requirement for various missile systems.
The IGMDP brought together India’s scientific community, academic institutions, R&D laboratories, industries, and the defense services to collaborate on strategic indigenous missile systems. The following missiles were developed under this program:
Prithvi: A short-range surface-to-surface ballistic missile.
Agni: An intermediate-range surface-to-surface ballistic missile.
Trishul: A short-range low-level surface-to-air missile.
Akash: A medium-range surface-to-air missile.
Nag: A third-generation anti-tank missile.
Examining Previous Year Questions from UPSC Civil Services Examination
Reflecting on previous UPSC Civil Services Examinations’ questions can provide insights into the kind of knowledge expected from aspirants. The question about the “Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)” emphasizes its role as an American anti-missile system capable of intercepting and destroying short and medium-range ballistic missiles during their terminal phase.
Another question focused on Agni-IV, a nuclear-capable long-range ballistic missile with a two-stage surface-to-surface facility. It is 20 meters long, weighs 17 tonnes, and can carry a one-tonne nuclear warhead over a 4000 km distance.
The successful test of the Agni-5 missile not only solidifies India’s position in missile technology but also signals a new phase in the country’s defense capabilities. As a nuclear-armed nation, these advancements could significantly influence India’s strategic standing on the global stage.
