India Successfully Test-Fires Agni-III Missile

On 6th February 2026, India successfully test-fired the Agni-III intermediate-range ballistic missile from the Integrated Test Range at Chandipur, Odisha, as part of a routine training exercise to validate operational preparedness.

Key Points

Routine Strategic Test: The launch was conducted under the supervision of the Strategic Forces Command to assess operational and technical readiness of the missile system.
Mission Success: Defence officials confirmed that all mission objectives were met and key performance parameters were successfully validated during the test.
Missile Specifications: Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation, Agni-III is a two-stage, solid-fuelled ballistic missile with a strike range exceeding 3,000 kilometres.
Payload Capability: The missile is capable of carrying both conventional and nuclear warheads, enhancing its strategic deterrence value.
Strategic Importance: Agni-III forms a key component of India’s credible minimum deterrence doctrine and long-range strike capability.
Operational Induction: The missile has been part of the Strategic Forces Command arsenal since 2011 and continues to undergo periodic testing for readiness.
Defence Preparedness: The successful launch reflects India’s sustained focus on strengthening its strategic deterrence posture and maintaining high levels of operational preparedness.