Agni-4 Missile | 10 Sep 2024
The Agni-4 missile was successfully launched from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha.
- The launch successfully validated all operational and technical parameters. It was conducted under the aegis of the Strategic Forces Command (SFC).
- Agni-4 is fourth in the Agni series of medium to intercontinental-range ballistic missiles developed by the DRDO.
- The name comes from the Sanskrit word 'Agni', which means 'fire' and represents one of the five elements of nature.
- Agni-4 It is an intermediate-range ballistic and surface-to-surface missile, designed to be launched from the ground or sea to hit targets on the ground or sea.
- The Agni-4 missile has a range of 4,000 kilometres, a length of 20 metres, and can carry a payload of 1,000 kg.
- The SFC forms part of India's Nuclear Command Authority (NCA). It is responsible for the management and administration of the country's tactical and strategic nuclear weapons stockpile.
- The NCA comprises a Political Council chaired by the Prime Minister, which is the sole body that can authorise the use of nuclear weapons and an Executive Council chaired by the National Security Advisor, which provides inputs for decision-making and executes the directives given to it by the Political Council.
Read more: Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle Technology