India launched its most powerful nuclear-capable missile, the Agni-V, as the IAF began a massive exercise to fine-tune its combat readiness in the eastern sector. This was part of a two-pronged strategic statement to China.
The Strategic Forces Command (SFC) in collaboration with DRDO conducted the test of the over 5,000-km range Agni-V ballistic missile, which brings even the northernmost part of China within its strike envelope, from the APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the Odisha coast.
According to sources “The three-stage solid fuelled Agni-V, in its full operational configuration, was successfully tested for its entire range. The missile incorporated some new technologies to make it lighter as well as enable it to go to a longer distance.”
The SFC had last tested the Agni-V in October 2021, which the defence ministry had then stated was in conformity with India’s stated policy to have “credible minimum deterrence that underpins our commitment to no first-use”.
Since the Agni-V is a canister-launch missile, it requires less maintenance and can be transported and fired more quickly than prior Agni models. Given that China has a sizable nuclear arsenal and missiles like the Dong Feng-41 (12,000–15,000 km) that can strike any Indian city, it gives India a stronger deterrence against Chinese aggression.
Last week, the Shillong-based Eastern Air Command launched the two day consolidated air combat training exercise in Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, which also included C-130J Super Hercules’ aircraft and drones, Apache attack and Chinook heavy-lift choppers.
IAF claimed it was a "pre-planned exercise" and unrelated to the significant physical altercation between Indian and Chinese forces on December 9 at Yangtse in the Tawang sector of Arunachal Pradesh.