Published: 12 February 2026Science & Technology
Agni-3 IRBM Successfully Test-Fired from Chandipur; Range 3,000-3,500 km at Mach 15
The Strategic Forces Command successfully test-fired the Agni-3 Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile on February 6, 2026 from the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, Odisha. The two-stage solid-fuelled missile achieved a range of 3,000-3,500 km.
Agni-3 can carry payloads up to 1,500 kg, including conventional or nuclear warheads, at a speed of Mach 15. The test validated the missile's accuracy and reliability as part of India's nuclear deterrence capability. India's strategic missile arsenal includes Agni-1 through Agni-5, with Agni-5 being intercontinental-range at over 5,000 km. The Pokhran test range in Rajasthan has been used for subsystem testing.
0
6-axis classification
CoverageNationalSubjectScience & TechnologyExamBasic Computer Instructor · CET Graduation · CET Senior Secondary · EO/RO · LDC · Mahila Supervisor · Patwar · PTI · RAS · REET · RPSC SI · School Lecturer · Senior Computer Instructor · Senior Teacher · UPSC · Vanpal · Both
Practice MCQ from this story
SolveTap an option below. Correct or incorrect feedback appears instantly.
Linked questionEasy
The Agni-3 missile test-fired in February 2026 has a range of approximately how many kilometres?
Explanation · Correct answer CAgni-3 is an intermediate-range ballistic missile, commonly cited with an approximate range of 3,000-3,500 km. The Ministry of Defence said it was successfully test-fired from the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, Odisha, on February 6, 2026; hence option C is correct.
Frequently asked questions
When was the Agni-3 ballistic missile test-fired in 2026?
The **Strategic Forces Command** successfully test-fired the **Agni-3 Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM)** on **February 6, 2026** from the **Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, Odisha**.
What are the key specifications of the Agni-3 missile?
**Agni-3** is a **two-stage solid-fuelled IRBM** with: **Range 3,000-3,500 km**; **Speed Mach 15**; **Payload up to 1,500 kg** (conventional or nuclear); **CEP (Circular Error Probable) of 40 metres**. It is capable of striking targets in China, Pakistan, and the Middle East.
What is the APJ Abdul Kalam Island and its significance?
**APJ Abdul Kalam Island** (formerly Wheeler Island) near **Chandipur, Odisha** is India's primary **integrated test range** for ballistic missile testing, managed by **DRDO**. It is named after former President and missile scientist **Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam** — the 'Missile Man of India'.
What is the difference between Agni series missiles?
**Agni Series**: **Agni-1** (700 km, SRBM); **Agni-2** (2,000 km, MRBM); **Agni-3** (3,000-3,500 km, IRBM); **Agni-4** (3,500-4,000 km, IRBM); **Agni-5** (5,000-8,000 km, ICBM capable); **Agni-P** (1,000-2,000 km, road-mobile). All are surface-to-surface ballistic missiles.
What is the significance of the Agni-3 IRBM for India's strategic deterrence?
The **Agni-3** extends India's nuclear deterrence to cover **all of China and Pakistan**, reaching targets up to 3,500 km away. At **Mach 15** speed, it is difficult to intercept. The test reaffirms India's **credible minimum deterrence** posture and strengthens the second-strike capability.
