Agni Missile

Manufacturer: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
Category: Missiles & Precision Weapons
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Guidance System INS, Ring-Laser Gyro, GPS-assisted navigation
Maximum Speed Up to Mach 24 (Agni-V class during terminal phase)
Launch Compatibility Road-mobile launcher, Rail-mobile launcher, Canister launch
Warhead Technology Conventional HE, Nuclear-capable payloads

Full Specifications

1. General Information

Name / Designation	Agni Missile Series
Type / Role	Medium-, Intermediate-, and Intercontinental-Range Ballistic Missile
Country of Origin	India
Manufacturer	Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
Service Entry / Year Introduced	2004–Present (varies by version)
Operational Status	Active

2. Performance & Range

Range	700 km (Agni-I) to 5,000+ km (Agni-V)
Speed	Mach 12–24 (depending on variant)
Ceiling / Altitude Limit	Sub-orbital trajectory (hundreds of km)
Accuracy (CEP)	Approx. 10–50 m (variant dependent)
Warhead Type	Conventional or Nuclear

3. Guidance & Targeting

Guidance System	INS, Ring-laser gyro, Satellite-aided navigation
Targeting Mode	Autonomous ballistic guidance
Launch Platform Compatibility	Road-mobile TEL, Rail-mobile, Canister launchers
Seeker Type	Not Applicable (ballistic missile)

4. Physical Characteristics

Length	15–20 m depending on version
Diameter	1.0–2.0 m
Wingspan	N/A
Launch Weight	12,000–50,000 kg
Propulsion	Three-stage solid-fuel rocket (Agni-V class)

5. Warhead & Payload

Warhead Weight	1,000–1,500 kg
Explosive Type	High-Explosive, Nuclear
Detonation Mechanism	Impact, Proximity Airburst
Payload Options	Conventional HE, Strategic Nuclear

6. Operational Use & Capabilities

Operational Range Type	Medium, Intermediate, Long, Intercontinental
Deployment Platform	Ground-based mobile launchers
Target Types	Strategic fixed assets, hardened installations
Combat Proven	No
Users / Operators	India

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

Technology 8 / 10
Performance 8 / 10
Maintenance Efficiency 8 / 10
Range & Endurance 8 / 10

PROS

Long-range nuclear-capable deterrent
Solid-fuel propulsion for rapid deployment
Canisterized versions enhance survivability
High accuracy with INS/RLG guidance
Multiple variants for mission flexibility

CONS

Non-export system; no allied interoperability
High operational cost and logistical footprint
Limited conventional strike versatility
Dependent on road/rail mobility for launch
International scrutiny due to strategic role

Agni Ballistic Missile Series: India’s Strategic Deterrent

India’s Agni missile series represents one of the most significant pillars of New Delhi’s long-range strategic deterrence architecture. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Agni family includes medium-, intermediate-, and intercontinental-range ballistic missiles engineered to deliver reliable, rapid-response strike capabilities. For U.S. defense analysts, the Agni series offers a critical benchmark in South Asia’s evolving strategic balance and nuclear doctrine.

The program began in the late 1980s under India’s Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP), eventually maturing into a multi-tiered missile family that includes Agni-I (700–900 km), Agni-II (up to 3,000 km), Agni-III (3,000–5,000 km), Agni-IV (4,000 km), and the flagship Agni-V, capable of exceeding 5,000 km range. These missiles use advanced solid-fuel propulsion, enabling rapid launch readiness, easier storage, and enhanced mobility across road- and rail-based platforms.

Agni missiles feature ring-laser gyros, inertial navigation systems, and satellite-based guidance, delivering high accuracy for both conventional and nuclear payloads. Recent variants have incorporated canisterized launch technology, shortening launch timelines and improving survivability against pre-emptive strikes.

With payload capacities ranging from 1,000–1,500 kg, the Agni series is compatible with a spectrum of warheads, including conventional high-explosive and strategic nuclear payloads. Their strategic purpose aligns closely with India’s declared No First Use (NFU) policy, focusing on secure second-strike capability.

As India continues refining longer-range and MIRV-capable variants, the Agni series remains a central component of its credible minimum deterrent posture, drawing increasing attention from U.S. defense observers and global security analysts.

Agni Missile Price

The Agni missile series is not available for international sale. As an indigenous Indian strategic weapon system developed exclusively for national defense, it has no commercial price or export valuation within the United States or global arms market.

FAQs

Is Agni the best missile in the world?

The Agni missile series is considered one of the most capable ballistic missile families in Asia, particularly due to its long-range variants like Agni-V. However, “best” is subjective and depends on mission role, accuracy, payload, and technology. Several nations—including the United States, Russia, and China—operate comparable or more advanced systems with differing strategic objectives.

Which is the strongest missile in India?

The Agni-V is widely regarded as India’s most powerful operational missile. With a range exceeding 5,000 km, solid-fuel propulsion, canisterized launch capability, and nuclear compatibility, it forms the backbone of India’s long-range strategic deterrence.

Which type of missile is Agni?

The Agni family consists of medium-, intermediate-, and intercontinental-range ballistic missiles (MRBM, IRBM, ICBM). These missiles are primarily designed for strategic deterrence and can deliver both conventional and nuclear payloads.

Is Agni good or bad?

Agni is neither inherently “good” nor “bad.” It is a strategic military asset developed by India to support national defense and deterrence policies. Its value or implications depend on geopolitical context, regional security dynamics, and how the system is deployed within India’s official doctrine.

What does Agni mean?

“Agni” is a Sanskrit word meaning “fire.” The name reflects the missile’s high-energy propulsion, destructive potential, and symbolic connection to power and transformation within Indian strategic thinking.

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