Agni-III Missile Test 2026: Range, Features & Strategic Forces Command Explained

Why in News?

India successfully test-fired the Agni-III intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM).

Agni-III

Type: Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM)

Range: Approximately 3,000–3,500 km Capable of targeting deep regions in South and East Asia

Payload Capacity:

• Up to 1.5 tonnes
• Can carry conventional or nuclear warheads

Propulsion:

• Two-stage solid fuel missile
• Enables quick launch and higher reliability

Strategic Forces Command:

• Strategic Forces Command (SFC) manages India’s nuclear weapons arsenal.
• It operates under the Nuclear Command Authority (NCA).

Three-Tier Structure

1. Political Council
   • Chaired by the Prime Minister
   • Sole authority to order nuclear strike
2. Executive Council
   • Chaired by the National Security Advisor (NSA)
   • Provides inputs and executes decisions
3. Strategic Forces Command (SFC)
   • Headed by a Commander-in-Chief (3-star officer)
   • Responsible for operational deployment of nuclear forces