India Successfully Test-Fires Agni-5 Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missile

On August 20, 2025, India successfully conducted a test-firing of the Agni-5 Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM) from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, Odisha. The test was carried out under the Strategic Forces Command, validating all operational and technical parameters, and reaffirming India’s growing strategic deterrence capability.

What is Agni-5?

Overview of the Missile

• Type: Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM)
• Range: Over 5,000 km, capable of reaching most parts of Asia and parts of Europe
• Payload: Capable of carrying both conventional and nuclear warheads
• Stages: Three-stage, solid-fuelled missile
• Launch Platform: Canisterised – allows quick launch from road-mobile platforms

Agni-5 is the most advanced missile in India’s Agni series, which forms the backbone of the nuclear deterrence strategy under India’s No First Use (NFU) policy.

Details of the 2025 Test

Key Test Highlights

• Date: August 20, 2025
• Location: Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, Odisha
• Supervising Agency: Strategic Forces Command
• Purpose: Validation of operational readiness and technical configurations

Outcome

• The test was fully successful, confirming the missile’s performance, accuracy, and reliability.
• It highlights India’s preparedness to maintain credible minimum deterrence in a rapidly evolving regional security environment.