Agni Prime Missile [UPSC Notes]

In June 2023, the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) successfully conducted flight tests of the New Generation Ballistic Missile “Agni Prime” or Agni-P from Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha. In this context, it is important to know what the Agni Prime Ballistic Missiles are, what is the capability of such missiles, and their relevance for the Indian defence forces. This topic is part of the security and defence segment of the UPSC syllabus.

What is Agni Prime Missile?

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Agni Prime or Agni-P is a two-stage canisterized solid propellant ballistic missile with redundant dual navigation and guiding systems.

• It is a canisterized surface-to-surface ballistic missile with a 1,000–2,000 km range capability.
• The Agni-P is an upgraded version of the Agni class that was developed as part of the IGMDP (Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme).
• The Defence Research and Development Organisation created the Agni Prime, also referred to as the Agni P, as a medium-range ballistic missile to replace the Agni-I and Agni-II missiles.
• In addition to the most recent navigation technologies, the missile has new composites, propulsion systems, and inventive guidance and control methods.
• It is the sixth ballistic missile in the Agni (missile) series.
• After three successful missile development tests, the Tri-Services Strategic Forces Command, which is in charge of the nation’s nuclear weapons, performed its first pre-induction night launch.
• It verified the system’s precision and dependability.  
• The ballistic missile Agni-I (700) will progressively be replaced by this one.

Also read: Agni-V Missile

About Agni Missile

The Prithvi short-range ballistic missiles, submarine-launched ballistic missiles, fighter planes, and the Agni family of missiles make up the core of India’s nuclear launch capacity.

• Agni missiles are surface-to-surface ballistic missiles with a great range and nuclear weapons capability.
• Under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP), the Agni-I, the first missile in the series, was created and tested in 1989.
• Realising the strategic significance of the Agni missile programme after it was successful, it was separated from the IGMDP.
• In India’s defence budget, it was recognised as a special programme and received sufficient funding for future development. The Agni series of missiles entered service in November 2019.

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