Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a significant announcement on Monday concerning the Agni-5 missile, conveying a strong message to Beijing and underscoring the government’s commitment to securing the nation from threats posed by countries like Pakistan and China. The first flight test of the Agni-5 missile, dubbed Mission Divyastra, which now incorporates Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicle (MIRV) technology, was conducted by India, placing the country among a select group of nations with this advanced capability.
The Agni-5 missile, which has a potential range between 5,000-7,000 km, enhances India’s nuclear deterrence, particularly against China. Previously, India conducted a successful test of the nuclear-capable Agni-5 in November 2021, followed by its first night trial on December 15, 2022. The introduction of MIRV technology means a single missile can now deploy multiple warheads in separate locations. The latest system is outfitted with indigenous Avionics and high-precision sensors to achieve remarkable accuracy upon re-entry. The project saw significant contributions from women, including the project director.
Comparatively, Pakistan’s efforts to develop MIRV capability with its 2.750 km range Shaheen III missile did not meet with success as reported by the country’s defense research organization. India, however, achieved a milestone with the Agni-5, capable of delivering multiple nuclear warheads across different targets. The test involved firing the missile, equipped with three MIRVs, across a distance exceeding 3,000 km, showcasing its robust re-entry capabilities with warheads separating in space and withstanding intense re-entry conditions.
India’s missile development program continues to advance with the test of the K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile and the development of Agni-P missiles. Despite potential resistance from neighboring countries that may affect international treaty dynamics, India’s strategic moves aim to deter China’s territorial ambitions and rapid missile development program. With the successful test of Agni-V, equipped with advanced MIRV technology, India reinforces its preparedness against anti-missile systems and completes a significant phase in its defense capabilities. Following the triumph of Mission Divyastra, no further tests are planned immediately, as the objectives have been realized, with project teams returning to analyze the data and make any necessary adjustments for operational readiness.