SOURCE: AFI
In 2024, India’s strategic defense capabilities have seen significant advancements with the addition of several new missile systems to its already formidable arsenal. Among the notable developments is the introduction of an upgraded version of the Agni-5 Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM), now equipped with Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology, marking a substantial leap in India’s nuclear deterrence strategy.
The Spectrum of India’s Missile Capabilities
India’s missile program now encompasses a wide range of ballistic and hypersonic missiles, each designed for specific strategic roles:
- Prahaar: A tactical, short-range ballistic missile intended for quick response scenarios.
- Prithvi Series: Including Prithvi-1 and Prithvi-2, these are short-range surface-to-surface missiles, with Prithvi-1 offering battlefield support and Prithvi-2 extending slightly further for tactical engagements.
- Dhanush: A naval variant of the Prithvi, capable of ship-based launches, enhancing India’s maritime strike capabilities.
- BMD Systems: The PAD (Prithvi Air Defence) and PDV-MK2 are part of India’s Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) initiative, aimed at intercepting incoming missiles at various altitudes.
- Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missiles (SLBMs): The K-15 (Sagarika) and K-4 are critical for ensuring a sea-based nuclear deterrent, allowing launches from submarines, thus providing a second-strike capability.
- Pralay: A new generation ballistic missile with a range adjustable from 150 to 500 kilometers, perfect for tactical battlefield operations.
- SMART (Supersonic Missile Assisted Release of Torpedo): A missile system that can deliver a torpedo at high speeds, enhancing anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
- Agni Series: The backbone of India’s strategic arsenal:
- Agni-1 to Agni-4 with varying ranges from 700 km to 3,500 km, addressing India’s regional strategic needs.
- Agni-5: Originally introduced with a range over 5,000 km, it has now evolved into the Agni-5 MK2 and the Agni-5 MIRV. The MIRV capability allows one missile to deploy multiple warheads, enhancing the ability to strike multiple targets or overwhelm missile defense systems.
- Agni-P: A new, canisterized missile in the Agni series, designed for quicker deployment and mobility.
- LRASHM (Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile): Focused on naval engagements, this missile extends India’s capability to engage enemy fleets at extended ranges.
The addition of MIRV technology to the Agni-5, now known as Agni-5 MK2 or Agni-5 MIRV, signifies a major strategic pivot. MIRV technology allows a single missile to target multiple locations, thereby providing a significant deterrence advantage against adversaries with missile defense systems. This development not only enhances India’s nuclear deterrence but also positions it among a select group of nations with such sophisticated missile technology.