Agni-4 Ballistic Missile Test-Fired from Odisha Coast
India successfully test-fired the Agni-4 ballistic missile, a significant step in strengthening its defence capabilities.
Source: GNews DRDO WeaponsIndia successfully conducted a test-firing of the Agni-4 ballistic missile on November 20, 2024. The launch took place from the Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha. This test was part of routine user training launches carried out by the Strategic Forces Command. The Agni-4 missile is an intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It has a strike range of approximately 4,000 kilometers. The successful test validated the missile's operational readiness and the reliability of its systems. This event followed days of speculation regarding a missile alert issued for the Bay of Bengal region. The Agni-4 missile is a key component of India's credible minimum deterrence strategy.
This news is important for competitive exams under the 'Defence' and 'Science & Technology' sections of General Awareness. Aspirants should know about India's missile programs, their ranges, and the organizations involved like DRDO and Strategic Forces Command. Questions often focus on the types of missiles, their capabilities, and their role in national security, relevant for UPSC GS Paper III and SSC exams.
- Agni-4 is an Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM).
- The missile has a strike range of approximately 4,000 kilometers.
- It was test-fired from Abdul Kalam Island, off the coast of Odisha.
- The test was conducted by India's Strategic Forces Command.
- Agni-4 was developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
- The test occurred on November 20, 2024.
Agni-4 is a nuclear-capable, intermediate-range ballistic missile developed by India. It is a two-stage solid-propelled missile with a range of about 4,000 km. It uses a ring laser gyroscope-based inertial navigation system and a micro-navigation system for accuracy. It is part of the Agni series of missiles, which are central to India's strategic deterrence.
Formerly known as Wheeler Island, it is an island off the coast of Odisha, India. It is a primary missile test facility for India's integrated test range program. Many of India's advanced missiles, including those from the Agni series, are tested from this site. It was renamed in 2015 in honor of former Indian President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam.
The SFC is a part of India's Nuclear Command Authority (NCA). It is responsible for the management and administration of India's tactical and strategic nuclear weapons stockpile. The SFC is tasked with the operational control of India's nuclear arsenal, including the delivery systems like ballistic missiles and nuclear-capable aircraft.
Examiners frequently ask about the ranges and types of missiles (e.g., ballistic vs. cruise), the organizations involved in their development (DRDO), and their launch sites. Focus on specific facts and figures.
Remember 'Agni-4' for '4,000 km' range. 'A' for Abdul Kalam Island, 'O' for Odisha.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the range of the Agni-4 ballistic missile?
The Agni-4 ballistic missile has an operational strike range of approximately 4,000 kilometers. This makes it an intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM), capable of reaching targets across a significant portion of Asia.
Which organization developed the Agni-4 missile?
The Agni-4 missile was developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). DRDO is India's premier agency for military research and development, responsible for various defence technologies.
Where was the Agni-4 missile test-fired from?
The Agni-4 missile was test-fired from Abdul Kalam Island, located off the coast of Odisha. This island is a crucial missile test facility for India's integrated test range program.