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BALASORE: The Strategic Forces Command (SFC) of Indian Army has started preparations for a series of user trials of indigenously developed weapons systems from November 9. The missiles lined up for tests include nuclear capable Agni-II, Prithvi-II and Agni-III.
Defence sources said apart from the user trials, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is also preparing for two experimental trials of its long range missiles - Agni-V and Agni-IV. Both the missions assume significance as their successful tests would pave the way for their induction in the armed forces and serial production.
While Agni-II has been planned to be test fired on November 9, Prithvi-II is scheduled for November 14. Though the schedules for the rest three missiles of the Agni series have not been fixed, sources informed that these weapon systems would be tested between November 24 and December 30.
Preparations are on in full swing at both the test facilities of the DRDO at Chandipur and Wheeler Island. All the Agni series of missiles would be fired from the Wheeler Island and the Prithvi-II would be launched from Chandipur test range. User trials would be conducted by the SFC personnel with logistic support from the DRDO.
Prithvi-II has a strike range of 350 km and the capability to carry 500-kg warhead. It is thrusted by liquid propulsion twin engine and uses Advanced Inertial Guidance System (AIGS) with manoeuvring trajectory.
Similarly, 3,000-km range Agni-III is a short and two-stage missile. It can carry both conventional and nuclear warheads weighing around 1.5 tonnes.
After two successful test-firings of Agni-V from land-based mobile launchers, the DRDO is looking forward to the first canister-launch of the missile. It is capable of carrying a nuclear warhead of about 1.5 tonnes.
Five Homegrown Missiles Lined up for Tests in Nov - The New Indian Express
