India has made significant strides in achieving self-reliance in its defense sector. One of the most remarkable achievements in this journey is Agni-5 (Agni-V), a powerful intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) that showcases India’s strength on the global stage. Agni-5 is a testament to India’s advanced missile technology and strategic capabilities.
Agni-5: An Overview
- Developed By: The Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) of India.
- Range: 5,000 to 8,000 kilometers.
- Purpose: Designed to deliver precise strikes on targets across vast distances, it can reach multiple continents, making it one of the most formidable missiles in the world.
- Speed: Mach 24 (24 times the speed of sound).
Why is Agni-5 Special?
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Long-Range Strike Capability:
- It can target the entire Asian continent and parts of Europe.
- Key Chinese cities like Beijing and Shanghai fall within its range, enhancing India’s strategic deterrence.
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Nuclear Warhead Capability:
- Agni-5 can carry nuclear warheads with extreme precision.
- It has the capacity to deliver up to 1.5 tons of payload.
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Guidance Technology:
- Equipped with advanced GPS guidance systems, Agni-5 ensures pinpoint accuracy in hitting its targets.
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Specifications:
- Length: 17 meters; Diameter: 2 meters.
- Powered by solid fuel with a three-stage propulsion system.
India’s Global Impact
By developing Agni-5, India has solidified its nuclear deterrence strategy. While adhering to a "No First Use" policy, India has emphasized that such missiles are meant only for defensive purposes.
However, the deployment of Agni-5 has raised two critical global concerns:
- Regional Balance of Power: India’s growing strength challenges China’s dominance, potentially altering the balance of power in the Asian region.
- Advanced Security Measures: The technological prowess of Agni-5 places India among the top nuclear powers in the world.
Towards Greater Excellence: Agni-6
- India is currently working on Agni-6, which is expected to have a range of 12,000 kilometers.
- It will be equipped with Multiple Independent Reentry Vehicles (MIRVs), enabling it to strike multiple targets simultaneously.
A Symbol of Strength
Agni-5 stands as a symbol of India’s progress in defense technology. This missile not only enhances traditional security measures but also establishes India as a powerful nuclear nation in the global arena.
“Agni-5 is not just a precision weapon showcasing India’s might; it is a cornerstone that reinforces India’s position in global geopolitics.”
BY : G.Umaramanan
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