New Delhi: India has successfully carried out the test of indigenously built nuclear-capable Agni-I missile, capable of hitting a target at a distance of 700 kms, from a test range off the Odisha coast as part of Strategic Forces Command (SFC) training exercise.

The surface-to-surface, single-stage missile, powered by solid propellants, was test-fired from a mobile launcher at 10:02 a.m. on Friday from launch pad-4 of the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Abdul Kalam Island (Wheeler Island), The Hindu reported.

The trial was "part of a training exercise by Strategic Forces Command of Indian Army", defence sources said, noting it was a "perfect launch", adding that "The exercise was conducted in a perfect manner and the trial was successful."

"The launch was undertaken as a part of periodic training activity by SFC to further consolidate operational readiness," they said.

Agni-I missile is equipped with sophisticated navigation system which ensures it reaches the target with a high degree of accuracy and precision.

Weighing 12 tonnes, the 15-metre-long Agni-I, is designed to carry a payload of more than one tonne. Its strike range can be extended by reducing the payload.

(With inputs from agencies)

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