Context: MIRV capability
India successfully test-fired an advanced Agni ballistic missile with MIRV capability from A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha.
About Agni missile series
- Developed by DRDO under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP).
- Series of nuclear-capable ballistic missiles forming the backbone of India’s strategic deterrence.
- Agni-I: ~700–900 km
- Agni-II: ~2,000 km
- Agni-III: ~3,000 km
- Agni-IV: ~4,000 km
- Agni-V: ~5,000–5,500 km range.
What is MIRV technology?
MIRV — Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle — allows a single missile to carry multiple warheads and strike different targets simultaneously.
Importance of MIRV capability
- Enhances India’s nuclear deterrence and second-strike capability.
- Helps overcome enemy missile defence systems.
- Enables one missile to target multiple locations simultaneously.
- Places India among a small group of countries possessing MIRV capability.
