Dhaka, Aug 29 (V7N) – India is expanding its missile capabilities, analysts say, in a move that could be aimed at both Pakistan and China. The country successfully tested its long-range Agni-V ballistic missile on August 20, a few days after Pakistan announced the formation of its new ‘Army Rocket Force Command.’

The Agni-V missile, the fifth in the Agni series, is over 17 meters long, weighs 50,000 kg, and can carry a warhead of 1,000 kg. It has a range of more than 5,000 km and can travel at speeds of approximately 30,000 km per hour.

While the test appears to send a warning to Pakistan, analysts suggest its primary target could be China. Christopher Clary, assistant professor at the University of Albany, USA, noted that India’s Agni-V is capable of striking China’s eastern coast, where major cities are located, reflecting the long-standing tensions between the two countries over border issues.

Pakistan’s decision to form a Rocket Force, modeled after China’s Rocket Force, is seen as a strategic move to monitor and manage ballistic, hypersonic, and cruise missile threats. Analysts predict this will bring significant changes to Pakistan’s military posture.

END/SMA/AJ