India Tests Its Advanced Agni Missile
India successfully test-fired a longer-range version of its intermediate-range Agni ballistic missile from its eastern coast Wednesday, prompting concern from Pakistan, Japan and Britain.
It was the second test of the upgraded version of the original Agni, a two-stage missile with a 1,250-mile range.
“India’s test-firing today of its Agni II missile is part of its ambitious nuclear and missile program, which poses a direct threat to Pakistan’s security and has been a matter of concern for the international community,” Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry said.
Japan also weighed in, urging India to refrain from further missile tests and saying that it hoped Pakistan would exercise restraint.
Britain’s Foreign Office said that the test “sends the wrong signal within the region and beyond” and that “restraint in developing nuclear weapons and possible delivery systems is in the long-term interests of India and the region.”
Agni II’s first test was held in April 1999, prompting tests within days by Pakistan of its medium-range Ghauri II missile.
The Agni is part of a wide-ranging missile development program.
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