Long range questions

How significant is the missile?

The missile gives India the strategic long reach to counter the Chinese nuclear arsenal. In accordance with India’s no-first-use policy, the missile is launched from a mobile rail or road platform that provides it the capability of a second (or retaliatory) strike. For the first time, India has the capability to hit targets deep within China, including cities like Beijing and Shanghai.

What message is the test sending out in the region?

The test follows India’s nuclear triad doctrine to have second-strike capability from air, land and sea. Seen with other recent and ongoing acquisitions, like mid-air refuellers, a nuclear submarine, AWACS and aircraft carriers, it not only improves deterrence against the growing Chinese military might but also enhances India’s reach in the region. In a complex Asian scenario, this extended reach is essential for India’s energy security as well as its capacity to protect its sea lanes of communication.

When was it first tested?

The missile was first tested in July 2006, unsuccessfully as the projectile failed to separate in the second stage and plunged into sea 2,000 km short of its target. The heat shield of the missile was found to be defective.

When will it be operational?

Scientists say that at least a couple of tests are required before the missile can be handed over to the armed forces. DRDO chief M. Natarajan says three more tests would need to be carried out to check its “repeatability”. However, going by past experience, the actual deployment may take much longer. The Agni II missile, with a range of 2,000 km, was first tested in 1999 and is still not fully operational.

What is the next step?

Using the Agni III platform as a base, DRDO has locked its sights on developing Surya, a missile with a range of over 5,000 km. Scientists are trying to “refine the processes” of Agni III and add a third propulsion stage to help push it beyond 5,000 km. This would elevate India into the super league category of countries which have the Inter Continental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) technology and worldwide reach.

Do China and Pakistan have similar capabilities?

China has the capability of striking targets at 13,000 km plus range with its DF-5 ICBM which has already been deployed. Though Pakistan does not have missiles with such reach, it can easily target most places in India with its Shaheen II and Ghauri missiles. So there is a possibility of these countries reassessing their anti-ballistic missile programmes.