India test-fires nuclear-capable Agni-3 missile

The Agni-III missile is powered by a two-stage solid propellant system.

With a length of 17 metres, the missile's diameter is 2 metres and launch weight is around 50 tonnes.

It can carry a warhead of 1.5 tonne which is protected by carbon all composite heat shield.

The sleek missile, already inducted into the armed forces, is equipped with hybrid navigation, guidance and control systems along with advanced on-board computer.

The electronic systems are hardened for higher vibration, thermal and acoustic effects, a DRDO scientist said.  

Though the first developmental trial of Agni-III carried out on July 9, 2006 could not provide desired result, subsequent tests on April 12, 2007, May 7, 2008 and February 7, 2010 as well as the first user trial on September 21, 2012 from the same base were all successful.