Nuclear Capable Agni-1 Missile successfully test-fired

Indigenously developed short-range nuclear capable ballistic Agni-1 was successfully test-fired from mobile launcher located at Integrated Test Range of Dr Abdul Kalam Island (Wheeler Island) off the Odisha.
The missile was tested as part of a periodic training activity by the Strategic Forces Command (SFC) of the Indian Army to consolidate operational readiness. It is claimed to be part of India’s minimum credible deterrence under No first to use policy.

Agni-1 Missile

Agni-1 is indigenously developed intermediate range surface-to-surface, single-stage missile. It was developed by Advanced Systems Laboratory (ASL) in collaboration with Defence Research Development Laboratory (DRDL) and Research Centre Imarat (RCI). ASL is the premier missile development laboratory of DRDO.
The missile weighs around 12 tonnes and is propelled by a solid rocket propellant system. It is 15-metre-long and can carry both conventional as well as nuclear payloads (warheads) up to 1,000 kg. It has strike range of over 700 km. It is equipped with specialised navigation system that ensures it reaches target with high degree of precision.
The missile already has been inducted into the armed forces (service) in 2004. It has proved its performance in terms of range, accuracy and lethality. The last trial of missile was successfully conducted in November 2016 from the same base.

Month: Current Affairs - February, 2018