Agni & Prithvi Ballistic Missiles : News & Discussions

I don't know much about such stuff , but if I had to go in the users line of thought, I would want all elements of it and not bound by one thing or another. It is also likely ranges are fudged to have the wriggle around room, ie what we know as mrbm/irbm is not that.
Nuke delivery project was started with aim to counter against nuclear capable states, existing or possible future cases, this much is certain from our doctrine, right? That easily gives us ballpark figure to where exactly we need to send the package ie delivery range. Next you build up the enabling tech, guidance & accuracy bit while making sure the survivable part. Point being A1-A2 class do not need silo treatment, but afterwards did and likely all bases are covered now naturally.
 
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While reading thru threads, realised there is no dedicated underwater nuke platforms thread even for k15? o_O
pic credit: Dr AK, ASL DRDO

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No idea how much is true.

DRDO’s Game Changing 70-Ton Canisterized Missile System

DRDO’s Game Changing 70-Ton Canisterized Missile System signifies a substantial advancement in India’s defence capabilities. The strategic incorporation of modular static launchers brings forth a myriad of benefits, ranging from cost savings to heightened survivability. As India grapples with the intricacies of modern geopolitics, this innovative approach ensures the nation maintains a technological edge in nuclear deterrence.
In a strategic move that has ignited widespread speculation, the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) has unveiled a Game changing 70-ton canisterized missile system, leaving experts and enthusiasts alike grappling with questions regarding its intended missile counterpart. The pivotal query revolves around whether this sophisticated launcher is designed for the existing Agni-V Mk-2 or the much-anticipated Agni-VI, an Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) poised to reshape India’s strategic capabilities.

A canisterized missile system, characterised by the storage and launch of missiles from sealed containers, has set the stage for a flurry of discussions among multiple sources. Astute observers are venturing intelligent guesses to unravel the enigma behind this advanced launcher.

The Agni-V Mk-2, a refined and lighter iteration of the original Agni-V ICBM, is recognized for its modifications aimed at extending its range to an impressive 8,000 km while reducing payload to 40-45 tonnes—a substantial departure from the original 50-55 ton configuration. Given this transformation, a logical inference emerges: the 70-ton launcher is tailored for a missile weighing in excess of 60-65 tons.

This deduction elevates the likelihood of its compatibility with the Agni-VI ICBM, a weapon system touted to possess a global reach spanning 10,000-12,000 km—a significant leap forward in India’s strategic prowess. Nevertheless, the conundrum persists—why the cloak-and-dagger approach to divulging details about Agni-VI by both the DRDO and the government?

Speculation runs rife that the veil of secrecy surrounding Agni-VI may be rooted in diplomatic caution. The apprehension of causing consternation among global players, particularly Western nations, due to the anticipated extended range, could be a driving force behind the guarded approach. The formidable impact and expansive reach of Agni-VI have the potential to reshape the geopolitical landscape, prompting the Indian government to tread cautiously to avert diplomatic repercussions and ensure a delicate balance of power on the world stage.

A compelling photograph has emerged, showcasing a formidable 70-ton system expertly positioned on a specialised fixture tailored for storage and transport. The intriguing detail that catches the eye is the canister in the image, adorned with a simulated missile—a clever ruse to emulate the authentic system. This visual spectacle sparks contemplation: Could India be harbouring clandestine subterranean installations equipped with fixed Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) launchers?

The emerging conjecture suggests that India, in pursuit of an astute and multifaceted strategic approach, may be strategically deploying ‘Tilter cum Launchers’ for ICBMs beneath the Earth’s surface. This nuanced tactic, supplementing the existing deployment of Mobile ICBM Launchers, amplifies the nation’s land-based nuclear defence capabilities. The strategic positioning of these hidden static ICBM launchers underground introduces a paradigm shift away from conventional ICBM silos.

Traditionally, silos serve as subterranean structures or containers meticulously crafted to accommodate and propel missiles, particularly ICBMs, into the vast expanse. These subterranean bastions constitute a linchpin in any nation’s strategic defence architecture, providing an impregnable and concealed nexus for storing and launching long-range missiles.

Diverging from this conventional approach, static ICBM launchers are fixtures of permanence, representing fixed installations or platforms tailored for the launch of ICBMs. Unlike their mobile counterparts, which can traverse diverse locations, these static launchers find their abode in unyielding positions, often ensconced within secure and fortified facilities, including subterranean bunkers.

In essence, the distinction lies in the stationary nature of both static ICBM launchers and silos. While a silo specifically denotes an underground structure engineered to house missiles, replete with additional protective features, a static launcher may manifest both above and below ground, featuring an array of launch platforms tailored to meet the demands of evolving strategic landscapes. The subtle interplay between these elements paints a nuanced portrait of India’s evolving and dynamic approach to fortifying its national defence apparatus.

The adoption of Modular Static Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) Launchers presents a paradigm shift in India’s defence strategy, offering a range of advantages over traditional ICBM silos:

A Viable Option:
  • The foremost advantage lies in the cost-effectiveness of deploying modular static launchers. This approach allows India to substantially reduce expenses associated with constructing and maintaining facilities, a stark comparison to the resource-intensive nature of traditional silos. This financial prudence enables the redirection of resources towards other critical defence initiatives, optimising the overall impact of the defence budget.
Enhanced Defence Measure:
  • The compact footprint of modular static launchers stands in stark contrast to the spatial demands of large silos. This smaller footprint facilitates strategic placement even in densely populated areas, bolstering facility security. The reduced visibility of these installations adds an element of surprise, acting as a deterrent to potential adversaries and enhancing national security by optimising the use of available space.
Survivability:
  • The decision to position static launchers underground provides an unparalleled level of survival capability. Shielded from aerial threats and attacks, these subterranean facilities ensure the robustness of India’s nuclear defence capabilities. Beyond protection, the logistics chain benefits from this approach, ensuring seamless system functionality even in challenging circumstances.
Backup for Defence Strength:
  • Integrating modular static launchers into the defence strategy introduces an additional layer of backup. This redundancy is invaluable during crises, providing a range of launch options, both mobile and static. The diversified launch capabilities enhance India’s capacity to respond effectively, showcasing a commitment to national security through a resilient and adaptive defence plan.
The unveiling of the DRDO’s Game Changing 70-Ton Canisterized Missile System signifies a substantial advancement in India’s defence capabilities. The strategic incorporation of modular static launchers brings forth a myriad of benefits, ranging from cost savings to heightened survivability. As India grapples with the intricacies of modern geopolitics, this innovative approach ensures the nation maintains a technological edge in nuclear deterrence. Anticipating further developments in this realm in the coming years underscores India’s unwavering dedication to fostering a robust, adaptable defence system capable of meeting evolving challenges on the global stage.


 
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First time ever. Agni showing MIRV carrying nose cone

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Notice the dome shaped cowling. So far Agni 5 was "very pointy " .
 
No it is pointy, the test cases, process is stipulated to be done with unitary RV only, at least the one they reveal pic of. The white dot in the RV can be spotted in the video. This RV can withstand 3000 deg C heating load for an extended period compared to older rv designs.
 
I came here to make "is it round or pointy?" jokes. I guess that answers the question.

This version of the A-5 is so different from its initial form that it might as well be a new missile.

Good they have officially tested this. For a long time we had the tech for an ASAT & a MIRVed ICBM but the political leadership hesitated from demonstrating it publicly. There are internal programs for FOBS & hypersonic glide vehicles in the works. Wonder if those will be publicly demonstrated too.