India on Thursday successfully conducted a test launch of the Agni-III intermediate-range ballistic missile from the Integrated Test Range at Chandipur in Odisha, reinforcing the country’s strategic deterrence capabilities. The launch was carried out under the supervision of the Strategic Forces Command as part of a routine training exercise aimed at validating the missile system’s operational and technical preparedness.

Defence officials said the missile performed as expected and met all mission objectives, with all operational parameters successfully validated during the test. The launch further demonstrated the reliability and accuracy of the Agni-III weapons system under operational conditions.

Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation, the Agni-III is a two-stage, solid-fuelled ballistic missile with a strike range of more than 3,000 kilometres. It is capable of carrying both conventional and nuclear warheads, making it a key pillar of India’s strategic forces.

The Agni-III has been inducted into the Strategic Forces Command since 2011 and forms an essential part of India’s credible minimum deterrence posture. Officials noted that the successful test reflects India’s continued emphasis on maintaining a high level of operational readiness and strengthening its strategic deterrence framework amid evolving regional security dynamics.