Agni-4: India’s nuclear deterrence capability has been further strengthened. A test of the Agni-4 medium-range ballistic missile was successfully conducted on Thursday. The missile’s capabilities were once again proven during a successful user trial launched from APJ Abdul Kalam Island near Chandipur, Odisha. Agni-4 is part of the Agni series of missiles, which also includes the Agni-2, Agni-3, and Agni-5.
It has a range of 3,500–4,000 kilometers. The entire territory of Pakistan falls within the range of the Agni-4; key Pakistani cities such as Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi are all within its reach. Additionally, the majority of China including its capital, Beijing, and its largest city, Shanghai also falls within the Agni-4’s range.
Solid Fuel and Rapid Deployment:
The Agni-4 operates using a two-stage solid-fuel system. The use of solid fuel ensures the missile remains ready for action over extended periods and allows for a rapid launch when needed. The missile can be launched via a road-mobile launcher, enabling easy transport from one location to another. This mobility makes it difficult for adversaries to target the Agni-4 system.
Key features of the Agni-4:
* Range: 3,500–4,000 km. *Type: Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM)
* Length: 20 meters
* Launch weight: 17 tonnes
* Payload capacity: 800–1,000 kg
* Warhead: Capable of carrying nuclear or conventional payloads
* Maximum speed: Approximately 18,500 km/h
* Accuracy (CEP): Within 100 meters
* Manufacturing: Developed by DRDO; manufactured by Bharat Dynamics Limited