Agni-V with MIRV technology can deploy several nuclear warheads, each capable of independently striking targets at ranges of more than 5,000 km.
India achieved a significant milestone in its defence capabilities on Monday with the successful test flight of the Agni-5 missile equipped with Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology. This test, named Mission Divyastra, was conducted by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) from Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island in Odisha.
MIRV technology allows a single missile to deploy multiple nuclear warheads, each capable of targeting different locations independently. This capability enhances India’s strategic deterrence by ensuring a more versatile and effective response to potential threats.
The Agni-5 missile, with a range exceeding 5,000 km, qualifies as a long-range ballistic missile. Its versatility extends to being launchable from both land-based platforms and submarines, further enhancing its operational flexibility and reach.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the DRDO scientists for their contributions to Mission Divyastra, highlighting India’s growing indigenous technological prowess in defense. He took to X and expressed pride in the successful test, emphasising its strategic importance in strengthening the nation’s security posture.
Proud of our DRDO scientists for Mission Divyastra, the first flight test of indigenously developed Agni-5 missile with Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 11, 2024
With this achievement, India joins an elite group of nations possessing MIRV capabilities, including major nuclear powers such as the United States, Russia, China, the UK, and France. The development and successful test of MIRV-equipped missiles represent a significant advancement in India’s defence capabilities, underscoring its commitment to maintaining a robust deterrence posture while also showcasing its technological advancements on the global stage.
The President of India, Ms. Droupadi Murmu also acknowledged the importance of the Agni-5 test under Mission Divyastra, noting its role in enhancing India’s geostrategic influence and capabilities.
The first flight test of Agni V under Mission Divyastra marks a very important milestone in India’s march towards greater geo-strategic role and capabilities. The state-of-the-art technology developed indigenously is a firm step in the direction of India becoming Atmanirbhar. I…
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) March 11, 2024
India’s successful test of the Agni-5 missile with MIRV technology not only signifies a major technological achievement but also underscores the country’s commitment to bolstering its national security and defence capabilities in an increasingly complex global security environment.
