Missile Agni-V

The Agni-V is a land-based ballistic missile developed as an evolution of the Agni-III system. Development was publicly disclosed in 2007 to extend the reach of the existing missile inventory. The first flight test occurred on April 20, 2012. Pre-induction trials were completed following a lofted trajectory test in December 2018.

The system is a three-stage, solid-fueled missile utilizing composite motor casings in its second and third stages. It is a canisterized weapon, which allows for environmental sealing and reduced maintenance. The missile reaches terminal speeds of Mach 24. Guidance is provided by a redundant system comprising a Ring Laser Gyroscope-based Inertial Navigation System (RLG-INS) and a Micro Inertial Navigation System (MINGS). These systems interface with both Indian and foreign satellite navigation constellations. Control is managed via a system-on-chip distributed architecture and nozzle-based control systems for all stages. The re-entry vehicle features a carbon composite heat shield designed to withstand atmospheric re-entry temperatures.

Payload options include a Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicle (MIRV) configuration, allowing for the delivery of multiple maneuverable nuclear warheads to separate targets. The system can also utilize decoys to counter detection and interception. Conventional variants are under development for specialized roles: an air-burst version for targeting runways and armored formations, and a bunker-buster variant designed to penetrate reinforced concrete before detonation.

The Agni-V is operated by the Strategic Forces Command of India. It is a road-mobile system transported and launched from an 8x8 Tatra Transport-cum-Tilting vehicle or a Rail Mobile Launcher. The canister-launch system enables deployment from pre-surveyed locations without permanent infrastructure. The missile entered service following its initial deployment phase in July 2018. The first user trial was conducted in October 2021, followed by a night trial in December 2022. The first flight test in a full MIRV configuration, designated Mission Divyastra, was completed on March 11, 2024. There is no recorded combat use.