Context
Recently, India successfully carried out a night launch of the nuclear-capable Agni-4 ballistic missiles from the APJ Abdul Kalam Island in Odisha.
- The successful test was carried out under the aegis of the Strategic Forces Command.
- The Strategic Forces Command is operationally responsible for all of India’s nuclear assets.
About Agni-4 Missile
- The surface to surface Agni-IV missile having 4000 km strike range is a two stage missile.
- It is 20-metre long and weighs 17 tonnes.
- It is equipped with modern and compact avionics to provide a high level of reliability.
- It is an Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile with a range of around 4,000 km. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
Key-Features
- It is equipped with state-of-the-art Avionics, 5th generation On Board Computer and distributed architecture.
- It has the latest features to correct and guide itself for in-flight disturbances.
- The most accurate Ring Laser Gyro based Inertial Navigation System (RINS) and supported by the highly reliable redundant Micro Navigation System (MINGS), ensures the vehicle reaches the target within two digit accuracy.
- The successful test reaffirms India's policy of having a 'Credible Minimum Deterrence' Capability.
- The successful test was carried out under the aegis of the Strategic Forces Command.
- The Strategic Forces Command is operationally responsible for all of India’s nuclear assets.
