Second Agni-V test flight likely tomorrow

Balasore, September 13
The second test flight of long-range nuclear-capable Agni-V missile may take place on September 15 from Wheeler Island off the Odisha coast. “If everything goes to plan and weather conditions permit, the test may be taken up on September 15 from launch pad No. 4,” an official of the Defence Research and Development Organisation said today.

Scientists and officials associated with the project were hopeful of a successful run as the first trial on April 19, 2012 went to plan.

“Preparation in the integrated test range has reached its final stage and the missile and its sub-systems have been put to last-minute check,” the DRDO official said.

“As it is a developmental trial, the missile system and battery of networks associated with the test are to be validated before going for the final launch,” he said.

The surface-to-surface three-stage solid propellant missile is designed to deliver nuclear warheads of 1,000 kg at a range of 5,000 km, sources said. The 17-metre-tall missile may take off from a mobile launcher with or without a canister system. — PTI