India’s defence capabilities received a significant boost with the successful launch of the Agni-4 ballistic missile from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, Odisha, on September 6, 2024.
According to an official statement issued by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) on Sept 6, 2024, this intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) test, conducted under the Strategic Forces Command (SFC), further strengthens India’s strategic deterrence, providing the country with a reliable platform for nuclear deterrence. The MoD confirmed that the test met all operational and technical parameters, marking another milestone in India’s evolving missile program.
About Agni-4
Agni-4, with its range of approximately 4,000 kilometers, can strike targets deep within neighboring countries, including China, making it a critical component of India’s defence strategy. The successful test reaffirms India’s commitment to modernizing its missile arsenal, a necessity given the increasing regional security challenges, especially in light of China’s growing military and missile capabilities.
India’s continuous advancements in missile technology are evident in this test and the recent Agni-Prime launch, which was flight-tested in June 2023. The Agni-Prime represents the next generation of ballistic missile technology, combining improved accuracy, range, and payload capacity. These developments showcase India’s focus on enhancing its missile arsenal’s versatility and precision.
Comparison with China
When comparing India’s missile capabilities with China’s, it’s evident that while India has made great strides, China remains significantly ahead in terms of both the number of missiles and technological sophistication. China’s missile arsenal, including its DF (Dongfeng) series, features multiple warhead capacities and boasts ranges that cover almost all of Asia and parts of Europe and the U.S. The DF-26, for example, can target medium-range threats up to 5,500 kilometers and is considered a major threat in the Indo-Pacific region.
However, India’s strategic emphasis is on maintaining a credible deterrent, which its Agni series successfully provides. While China’s missile force is larger and more advanced, India’s focus remains on a credible second-strike capability as part of its No First Use (NFU) nuclear doctrine. The Agni-4 fits within this context, offering a robust deterrence capability against China and Pakistan.
As the regional dynamics continue to evolve, India’s commitment to bolstering its missile defence system, along with its partnerships with countries like the US and France, will be crucial in maintaining balance against China’s military advancements. India’s missile program, while still catching up in comparison, remains a key pillar in its defence strategy, ensuring stability and deterrence in an increasingly volatile Indo-Pacific region.