Why in the News
India successfully conducted the flight-trial of an advanced Agni missile equipped with a Multiple Independently Targeted Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) system on May 8, 2026. The test was carried out from Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Island.
What is a Multiple Independently Targeted Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV)?
- MIRV technology allows:
- A single ballistic missile to carry multiple nuclear warheads
- Each warhead to strike different targets independently
How MIRV Works
- Step 1: Missile Launch: A ballistic missile is launched carrying multiple warheads.
- Step 2: Mid-course Phase: After reaching space or upper atmosphere:
- The missile releases several re-entry vehicles
- Step 3: Independent Targeting: Each warhead:
- Follows a separate trajectory
- Hits a different target
| [2026] Consider the following statements 1. Ballistic missiles are jet-propelled at subsonic speeds throughout their fights, while cruise missiles are rocket-powered only in the initial phase of fight. 2. Agni-V is a medium-range supersonic cruise missile, while BrahMos is a solid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? [A] 1 only [B] 2 only [C] Both 1 and 2 [D] Neither 1 nor 2 |
