India successfully test-fires new generation Agni Prime missile

NEW DELHI - India successfully tested the new generation nuclear-capable Angi Prime ballistic missile from Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam island off the coast of Odisha, according to an official statement Saturday by the Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

Various telemetry, radar, electro-optical stations and down range ships positioned along the eastern coast tracked and monitored the Agni P missile’s trajectory and parameters, said DRDO, adding that the missile followed text book trajectory, meeting all mission objectives with a high level of accuracy.

The Agni P is a two-stage canisterized solid propellant ballistic missile with a dual redundant navigation and guidance system with a range capability between 1,000 to 2,000 kilometers (621 - 1,242 miles).

It is the smallest and lightest among the entire Agni series of ballistic missiles. It weighs 50% less than the Agni 3, the statement added.

The second test flight has proven the reliable performance of all the advanced technologies integrated into the system.

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO for the successful test flight and expressed happiness for the excellent performance of the system.

Secretary Department of Defence R&D (Research and Development) and Chairman of DRDO, G Satheesh Reddy, appreciated the efforts of the team to have completed the second development flight trial with additional features and congratulated members for the consecutive success within the same calendar year.