DRDO Agoing to launch Agni-VI Programme, which enhances strategic power of India.

A Major Step in India’s Defence Development

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has declared that it is all set to commence the Agni-VI missile programme.

This is a significant move towards long-term defence planning of India. The programme is yet to be approved by the Government of India. But the technical preparation is already done.

This indicates that the ecosystem of the missile development in India is advanced and is capable of supporting advanced systems.

The Agni-VI Readiness of DRDO.

DRDO Chairman Samir V Kamat affirmed that the organisation is technologically prepared.

He explained that:

• There is already research and design work.
• Technology is developed as required.
• Production and testing of infrastructure is prepared.

All that is left is official policy approval. Such kind of preparedness is a good planning and scientific skill.

Why Agni-VI is Important?

Agni-VI will be a very sophisticated missile. It will enhance the distance and precision.

Key expected features:

• Intercontinental range (more than 5,500 km)
• Better navigation and targeting mechanisms.
• Higher payload capability
• Increased defence survivability.

The missile will be part of the Agni missile. This is already the foundation of strategic deterrence of India.

Agni-VI will also enhance the capabilities of India in countering long-range threats.

Advancement in Hypersonic Technology.

India is also in the development of hypersonic weaponry. They are some of the quickest weapons globally.

An important project is the Long- Range Anti-Ship Missile (LR-AShM) which is an anti-ship hypersonic glide missile.

Important features:

• Mach 5 and above.
• Booster rocket to initial launch.
• Glide engine-free phase.

This renders them hard to intercept and detect.

In comparison:

• Continuous propulsion is achieved with the scramjet engines of cruise missiles.
• Hypersonic glide vehicles are dependent on speed and trajectory.

Such technology will place India in a good position in the contemporary war.

Understanding Missile Types

The missile programme of India consists of various types:

Ballistic missiles: Fly in a high trajectory and hit long distance targets.
Cruise missiles: Low-altitude, constantly propelled.
Hypersonic missiles: Travel at very fast speeds.