Successful test-firing of ‘Agni 5’ Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile

New Delhi, Aug 2025 : India on Wednesday successfully test-fired its Agni-5 intermediate range ballistic missile (IRBM), further strengthening the nation’s strategic deterrence capabilities. The trial, conducted from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur in Odisha, validated all key operational and technical parameters, according to the Ministry of Defence.

In a brief statement, the ministry confirmed:
“Intermediate range ballistic missile Agni-5 was successfully test-fired from the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur in Odisha on August 20. The launch validated all operational and technical parameters. It was carried out under the aegis of the Strategic Forces Command.”

Background of Agni-5 Trials

The Agni-5, part of India’s indigenously developed Agni missile series, is a nuclear-capable ballistic missile designed to enhance the country’s long-range strike capability. The missile is equipped with advanced navigation and guidance systems and can carry multiple warheads.

The last major trial of Agni-5 was conducted on March 11, 2024, when the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully tested the missile with multiple independently targetable re-entry vehicle (MIRV) technology. During that test, the missile carried multiple re-entry vehicles, which were tracked and monitored by various telemetry and radar stations, achieving all designated mission parameters.

Strategic Significance

The successful launch on Wednesday reaffirms the reliability of the missile system and reflects India’s advancing defence capabilities. Defence analysts noted that repeated successful trials enhance deterrence credibility and signal India’s growing self-reliance in strategic technologies.

By validating its operational readiness, the test strengthens the role of the Strategic Forces Command (SFC), which is responsible for managing India’s nuclear arsenal and delivery systems.

Looking Ahead

With the continued success of Agni-5 trials, India is expected to further integrate the missile into its strategic arsenal, ensuring robust preparedness against evolving security challenges. The incorporation of technologies such as MIRV also underlines DRDO’s progress in developing next-generation systems capable of engaging multiple targets with high precision.