India successfully launched the Agni-4 intermediate-range ballistic missile in operational configuration, from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha on Friday, 6-Sep-2024

In a significant boost to India's defence capabilities, the Ministry of Defence announced the successful launch of the intermediate-range ballistic missile, Agni-4 on 6-Sep-2024. The launch was conducted from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha, and was deemed a success, with all operational and technical parameters being validated.

The Agni-4 (or Agni-IV) is an indigenous solid-fuelled intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) with a range of up to 4,000 kilometres. The two-stage missile, previously named Agni-2 Prime, is a derivative of the Agni-2 (Agni-II) medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM) with extended range.

The missile was first test-fired on December 10, 2010. The Strategic Forces Command conducted the first user trial of the Agni-4 on December 2, 2014. India's nuclear-tipped missiles and other nuclear-weapon delivery platforms are under the operational command of the SFC, which is an integrated tri-services command headed by a two-star general (major general) from the Indian Army or an officer of equivalent rank from the Indian Navy or the Indian Air Force. The SFC reports directly to the Prime Minister’s Office.

The Agni-4 IRBM comprises two stages and utilizes solid fuel propellants. It has a total weight of 17,000 kilograms. Its length is approximately 20 metres and has a base diameter of 1.2 metres.

Designed to deliver a payload of 1,000 kilograms, the Agni-4’s range has been a subject of varying reports. Indian Army sources in 2017 indicated plans to test it at ranges below 3,500 kilometres to meet specific operational requirements. The defence ministry too has provided inconsistent figures about its range – citing 3,000 kilometres, 3,500 kilometres, and 4,000 kilometres on different occasions.

The missile’s propulsion system consists of a first stage with a 1.2-metre diameter casing made of maraging steel (a steel alloy that contains up to 25 per cent nickel and other metals and is strengthened by a process of slow cooling and age hardening), generating an average thrust of 710 kilonewtons (kN). The second stage, slightly narrower at about 1 metre in diameter, utilizes a carbon-fibre casing and produces 39.5 kN of average thrust.

For navigation and control, the Agni-4 employs an inertial guidance system featuring ring laser gyroscopes. It also incorporates flex nozzle control (FNC) thrust vectoring control systems to maintain precise orientation during flight. The defence ministry claims that the missile has an impressive accuracy, with a circular error probable (CEP) of less than 100 metres at its maximum range of 4,000 kilometres.

The Agni-4 is versatile in its payload capacity, capable of carrying both conventional and nuclear warheads. Test-launches have reportedly included unitary conventional payloads and partially assembled nuclear devices. The estimated weight of its nuclear payload is 1,000 kilograms.

Significance of The Agni-IV Missile

The Agni-IV missile is a crucial component of India's strategic defence capabilities, representing a significant advancement in missile technology. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), it is an intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) with a range of up to 4,000 kilometers. This range allows it to target high-value adversaries, enhancing India's nuclear deterrent posture against countries like China and Pakistan.

The missile features a two-stage solid propulsion system and is designed to be launched from a road-mobile platform, which increases its operational flexibility and survivability. The incorporation of advanced technologies, such as a re-entry heat shield and improved guidance systems, enhances its accuracy and reliability. The Agni-IV's ability to carry strategic nuclear warheads further solidifies its role in India's defence strategy.

Deterrence Capability

The Agni-IV missile plays a pivotal role in India's credible minimum deterrence strategy. This concept aims to maintain a nuclear arsenal sufficient to deter adversaries while projecting a non-aggressive stance. The missile's successful tests reaffirm India's commitment to maintaining a robust nuclear deterrent, particularly in light of ongoing military tensions with China.

By enhancing the kill efficiency of its nuclear arsenal, the Agni-IV allows India to utilize smaller yield warheads while still achieving significant destructive capability. This capability is crucial in a nuclear deterrence framework, where the threat of a retaliatory strike can prevent potential aggressors from initiating conflict).

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