Agni III takes off with flying colours

NEW DELHI: Thursday’s successful test of Agni III, a nuclear-capable ballistic missile, which can hit targets 3,000km away, marks a milestone for the military establishment. Not only did the feat stamp out the failed first test of July 9, 2006, in the words of Defence Minister AK Antony, it bore proof that India has “matured in the sphere of missile technology”.

Congratulating the scientists spearheading the project, Antony said Agni III has “confirmed India’s strategic capability for minimum credible deterrence”.

Though international reaction was muted, China was quick to express hope “that India, as a country with an important influence in this region, can work to maintain and promote peace and stability”.

The missile would fill a major gap in the country’s need to have a minimum credible nuclear deterrence, especially against China, military sources said. The 48 tonne Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile was tested from Wheeler Island off Orissa.