India Successfully Test-Fires Nuclear-Capable Agni-5 Missile Ahead of PM Modi’s China Visit
New Delhi: India has successfully test-fired its indigenously developed Agni-5 nuclear-capable ballistic missile, just days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to China for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit.
The missile was launched from Odisha’s Abdul Kalam Island and, according to the Defense Ministry, “validated all operational and technical parameters.” With a range of over 5,000 kilometers (3,100 miles), the Agni-5 can strike deep inside the territory of rivals such as China and Pakistan.
Strategic Significance
India and China have been locked in tense standoffs since the deadly 2020 border clashes in Ladakh.
While Beijing is expanding its nuclear arsenal—estimated at 600 warheads by SIPRI—India currently maintains around 180 warheads, making the Agni-5 a critical part of New Delhi’s deterrence strategy.
Defense analysts note that the test signals India’s resolve to strengthen its strategic capabilities amid China’s growing military assertiveness and Pakistan’s deepening defense ties with Beijing.
Diplomatic Backdrop
The missile test comes shortly after Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s visit to New Delhi, which prepared the ground for Modi’s late-August trip to Tianjin for the SCO summit. India and China have recently taken steps to normalize ties, including:
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Resuming direct commercial flights suspended since 2020.
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Reopening Tibet pilgrimage sites for Indian pilgrims after five years.
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Reissuing tourist visas for each other’s citizens.
“Stable, predictable, constructive ties between India and China will contribute significantly to regional as well as global peace and prosperity,” Modi said following his meeting with Wang Yi.
Wider Geopolitical Context
India’s relations with the United States have recently seen friction, with Washington threatening 50% tariffs over India’s purchase of Russian oil.
Analysts suggest this pressure could inadvertently push New Delhi and Beijing closer, despite long-standing tensions.
At the same time, the missile test is a reminder to Pakistan, which has had recent border conflicts with India.
With China supplying 81% of Islamabad’s imported weapons, the Agni-5 strengthens India’s deterrence posture against both its nuclear-armed neighbors.
Conclusion
The successful test of the Agni-5 demonstrates India’s commitment to bolstering its defense capabilities while navigating a complex geopolitical environment.
As Modi heads to China for the SCO summit, the move underscores New Delhi’s message of both strength and dialogue in maintaining regional stability.