Bhubaneswar: India on Friday successfully conducted a test launch of the Agni-3 ballistic missile from Abdul Kalam Island off the Odisha coast, marking another milestone in the country’s defence preparedness. The test was carried out under the supervision of the Strategic Forces Command as part of a routine training exercise. The government congratulated the scientists and armed forces involved in the mission.
The Agni-3 missile is capable of striking targets at ranges between 3,000 and 3,500 kilometres with high accuracy and can carry nuclear warheads weighing up to 1.5 tonnes. Powered by a two-stage solid-fuel engine, the missile features advanced navigation and guidance systems.
Already inducted into the armed forces, the latest launch further strengthens India’s minimum credible nuclear deterrence, particularly in the context of strategic challenges from neighbouring countries such as China and Pakistan.
DRDO and defence officials said the missile’s flight was closely monitored using radars, telemetry stations and electro-optical systems, confirming that all mission parameters were met and the missile successfully reached its designated target.