DRDO Successfully Tests Agni-Prime Next-Generation Ballistic Missile
DRDO has successfully flight-tested the 'Agni-Prime' (Agni-P) next-generation nuclear-capable ballistic missile off the Odisha coast.
2-Minute Summary (TL;DR)
- Agni-Prime (Agni-P) is a next-generation, nuclear-capable ballistic missile successfully tested by DRDO on May 8, 2026.
- The missile has a range of 1,000 to 2,000 kilometers and is a two-stage, canisterized, solid-propellant system.
- Key advancements include being lighter, more mobile, and possessing stealth capabilities compared to earlier Agni variants.
- The canisterized design allows for long-term storage and rapid, on-demand launch, enhancing strategic readiness.
- The test was conducted from Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha, validating advanced navigation and guidance systems.
- Agni-Prime strengthens India's 'Credible Minimum Deterrence' policy and modernizes its strategic missile arsenal.
- DRDO is the primary agency responsible for the design, development, and testing of the Agni series of missiles.
- The successful test highlights India's self-reliance and technological prowess in advanced defence systems.
How This Topic is Tested in Competitive Exams
| Exam | Frequency | Approx. Marks | What Gets Asked |
|---|---|---|---|
| SSC (CGL / CHSL / MTS) | High | 3–5 | Defence acquisitions, military exercises, and appointments appear in SSC GK. |
| UPSC / State PCS | Medium | 4–8 | UPSC focuses on strategic aspects: defence policy, Indo-Pacific, border issues, and bilateral defence deals. |
| Railway (RRB NTPC / Group D) | High | 3–5 | Army, Navy, and Air Force current events are regularly tested in Railway GK. |
Key Facts to Remember: DRDO Successfully Tests Agni-Prime Next-Generation Ballistic Missile
- Agni-Prime (Agni-P) is a next-generation, nuclear-capable ballistic missile successfully tested by DRDO on May 8, 2026.
- The missile has a range of 1,000 to 2,000 kilometers and is a two-stage, canisterized, solid-propellant system.
- Key advancements include being lighter, more mobile, and possessing stealth capabilities compared to earlier Agni variants.
- The canisterized design allows for long-term storage and rapid, on-demand launch, enhancing strategic readiness.
- The test was conducted from Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha, validating advanced navigation and guidance systems.
- Agni-Prime strengthens India's 'Credible Minimum Deterrence' policy and modernizes its strategic missile arsenal.
- DRDO is the primary agency responsible for the design, development, and testing of the Agni series of missiles.
- The successful test highlights India's self-reliance and technological prowess in advanced defence systems.
Practice Questions
Q1. What is the approximate range of the Agni-Prime (Agni-P) ballistic missile?
- 500 to 1,000 kilometers
- 1,000 to 2,000 kilometers
- 2,000 to 3,000 kilometers
- 3,000 to 4,000 kilometers
Explanation: The Agni-Prime (Agni-P) is designed to have a range between 1,000 and 2,000 kilometers, positioning it as a medium-range ballistic missile with enhanced capabilities.
Q2. Which organization is responsible for the development and testing of the Agni-Prime missile?
- Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
- Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
- Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
- Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC)
Explanation: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is the premier research and development agency of India responsible for developing advanced defence technologies, including the Agni series of missiles.
Q3. What is a significant advantage of the 'canisterized' design of the Agni-Prime missile?
- It allows for longer flight times.
- It increases the missile's payload capacity.
- It enables rapid launch and long-term storage.
- It reduces the missile's radar signature significantly.
Explanation: The canisterized design protects the missile during storage and allows it to be launched quickly and efficiently on short notice, enhancing operational readiness and strategic flexibility.
Q4. The Agni-Prime missile is described as a successor and upgrade to which earlier Agni variants?
- Agni-II and Agni-III
- Agni-I and Agni-II
- Agni-III and Agni-IV
- Agni-IV and Agni-V
Explanation: Agni-Prime is positioned as an advanced version and potential successor to the Agni-I and Agni-II missiles, offering improved features and bridging capabilities within the Agni series.
Q5. The successful test of Agni-Prime directly contributes to which of India's strategic defence policies?
- No First Use (NFU) policy
- Act East Policy
- Credible Minimum Deterrence
- Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) membership
Explanation: The development and successful testing of advanced strategic missiles like Agni-Prime are crucial for maintaining India's 'Credible Minimum Deterrence', which ensures the nation's security and deters potential adversaries.
How to Prepare Defence for Government Exams — DRDO Successfully Tests Agni-Prime Next-Generatio…
For every military exercise, note: India + Partner country + Purpose (bilateral or multilateral). Questions are pattern-based.
Defence indigenization ('Atmanirbhar Bharat in Defence') is a high-priority topic for 2025–26. Focus on systems developed by DRDO or HAL.
Chiefs of defence services change periodically. Always keep the current CDS, Army Chief, Navy Chief, and Air Chief up to date.
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