Agni-3 Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile

Context

India recently conducted a successful test launch of Agni-3, a strategic ballistic missile, from the Integrated Test Range in Odisha. The trial was executed under the operational supervision of the Strategic Forces Command, validating the missile’s reliability and accuracy.

Missile Category

Agni-3 belongs to the class of Intermediate Range Ballistic Missiles (IRBMs) and is capable of delivering nuclear payloads.

Development Authority

The missile has been indigenously designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

Deployment Configuration

It is a surface-to-surface missile system deployed on road- and rail-mobile launchers, enhancing operational survivability.

Strategic Importance

Agni-3 reinforces India’s credible minimum deterrence doctrine and is a vital component of the country’s second-strike capability.

Service Status

The missile has been operational with the Strategic Forces Command since 2011.

Operational Reach

Range: Approximately 3,000–3,500 km
Designed for high-precision engagement of strategic targets.

Trajectory Characteristics

Follows a pre-programmed ballistic flight path and impacts the designated target area with high accuracy.

Propulsion Mechanism

Guidance & Navigation

Uses a strapdown inertial navigation system (INS) with GPS augmentation for improved accuracy.

Payload Capability

Configured as a nuclear delivery platform with an estimated warhead yield of 200–300 kilotons.

Key Technical Parameters

Length: ~17 metres
Diameter: ~2 metres
Weight: ~11 tonnes
Accuracy: ~40 m CEP
Payload: ~1.5 tonnes

Agni Missile Family – Capability Spectrum

Short to Medium Range Systems

Agni-I & Agni-II: Solid-fuel, mobile missiles ensuring regional deterrence.
Agni-Prime: Compact design with advanced navigation, capable of engaging mobile and naval targets.

Intermediate Deterrence Layer

Agni-III: Enables deeper strategic strike capability with enhanced precision.

Long-Range & Advanced Variants

Agni-IV: ~4,000 km range with next-generation avionics and Ring Laser Gyro guidance.
Agni-V: ~5,000–5,500 km range, three-stage missile providing intercontinental strike capability.

Source : PIB