Source: TOI
Context: India successfully test-fired the Agni-Prime intermediate-range missile from a rail-based mobile launcher, a first-of-its-kind launch that enhances mobility and stealth in strategic deterrence.
About India test-fires Agni-Prime missile from rail-based mobile launcher:
What it is?
- Agni-Prime (Agni-P): A next-generation, nuclear-capable intermediate-range ballistic missile.
- Part of India’s Agni missile series, designed to strengthen strategic deterrence under the Strategic Forces Command (SFC).
Developed by: Designed and developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with SFC.
Aim:
- To provide flexible, survivable, and rapid-response capability in India’s nuclear doctrine.
- To diversify launch platforms beyond road-based systems, ensuring resilience against first strikes.
Key Features:
- Range: Up to 2,000 km (intermediate range).
- Rail-based mobility: Can move freely across national rail networks, reducing predictability of launch sites.
- Quick reaction time: Launch possible within minutes with minimal visibility.
- Canisterised system: Ensures faster deployment, storage safety, and longer shelf life.
- Advanced guidance: State-of-the-art communication, navigation, and independent launch capability.
- Stealth: Reduced detectability improves survivability against pre-emptive strikes.
Significance:
- Strategic Deterrence: Places India among select nations with rail-based canisterised launch systems.
- Geopolitical Edge: Enhances India’s nuclear triad survivability amid evolving regional security challenges.
- Operational Flexibility: Rail mobility complements road and silo systems, complicating adversary targeting.
