Context

• India has successfully tested its first intercontinental ballistic missile Agni-5.

Key Points

• This missile is an important weapon for the Indian Armed Forces. It is also known as 'city killer'.
• It is equipped with Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicle (MIRV) technology. As a result, it can be launched on multiple targets simultaneously.
• Its first test took place in April 2012.
• Agni-5 is India's first and only intercontinental ballistic missile, developed by the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO).
• Its strike range is between 5,000 to 7,000 kilometers.
• The speed of the Agni-5 missile is 30,600 kilometers per hour.
• A three-stage solid fuel engine has been used in the Agni-5 missile.
• This missile travels into space before re-entering the atmosphere.
• Apart from this, this missile can carry up to one and a half tonne nuclear weapons.
• It is 17.5 meters long and its diameter is 2 meters i.e. 6.7 feet.
• Its speed is Mach 24.
• This missile can also be launched from a submarine.
• Canister technology has been used in its launching system. Because of this, this missile can be easily transported anywhere.
• All the countries of Asia including China and Pakistan, Ukraine, Russia, Japan, Indonesia and some parts of Europe will come under the target of this missile.

Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP)

• Establishment idea – Famous scientist Dr. A. P.J. by Abdul Kalam
• Objective: To achieve self-reliance in the field of missile technology
• Beginning: in the year 1983
• Completed: March 2012

Missiles developed under IGMDP

• Prithvi: Short-range ballistic missile capable of surface-to-surface strike.
• Agni: Surface-to-surface medium-range ballistic missile
• Trishul: Short-range missile capable of striking from surface to sky
• Nag: Third generation anti-tank missile.
• Akash: Medium-range surface-to-air missile.

Important Facts For Exams

• Agni-1: Its first successful test was conducted on 28 March 2010. Its range is 700 kilometers.
• Agni 2: Its strike range is 3000 km, 1000 kg nuclear bomb can be sent from this missile.
• Agni 3: Agni 3 was tested in July 2006. Its strike range is up to 3000 kilometers.
• Agni 4: It was tested in 2011. Its range is 4000 kilometers.