WITH AGNI V TEST, INDIA MAKES THE MIRV LEAP
Why in the news?
India’s Agni V test with MIRV technology showcases nuclear advancement, impacting regional dynamics among India, China, and Pakistan.
source:toi
About Significance of MIRV Technology:
- India’s recent Agni V test marks a significant leap by showcasing Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology.
- MIRVs allow a single missile to carry multiple nuclear warheads, capable of hitting different targets independently.
- This technology enhances India’s nuclear deterrence capabilities and places it among a select group of nations with MIRV capability.
About MIRV Technology:
● MIRV technology: One missile carries multiple warheads, targeting different locations. ● Warheads: Launched independently, reaching targets up to 1,500 km apart. ● Requirements: Precise guidance, sequential warhead release for effective deployment. About Integrated Guided Missiles Development Programme (IGMDP) : ● Integrated Guided Missiles Development Programme (IGMDP) led by Dr APJ Abdul Kalam ran from 1982-2008. ● Nodal agencies: DRDO and Ordnance Factories Board. ● Developed missiles: Prithvi (SRBM), Trishul (SRSAM), Nag (ATGM), Akash (MR-SAM), Agni (SSBM). Understanding Agni Ballistic Missile System: ● The Agni missile family includes Agni-I, II, III, and IV; deployed variants in the Indian Army. ● All Agni missiles: Nuclear-capable ballistic missile system. ● Agni-I: Range of 700-800 km; first tested under IGMDP in 1989. ● Agni-II: Range of 2000 km ● Agni-III: Range of 3000 km; deployed variant in service with the Indian Army. ● Agni-IV: Range of 4000 km; another deployed variant. ● Agni-V: Intercontinental range ballistic missile; successfully tested in December 2018; range of 5000 km. What is Mission Divyastra’ ? ● The maiden flight test of India’s indigenous Agni-5 missile, boasting a 5,000-km range and MIRV technology on 11 March ● ‘Mission Divyastra’: DRDO test fires Agni V ballistic missile. ● Elite group possessing MIRV technology: US, UK, France, China, Russia, and India. About DRDO: ● DRDO: Defense research and development agency in India. ● Mission: Achieve self-reliance in defence technologies. ● Objective: Equip armed forces with state-of-the-art weapon systems. ● Works under: Ministry of Defence. ● Focus: Research, development, and innovation in defence technology. |