Agni-V will add to India's security credibility: Manmohan Singh

New Delhi, Apr 19 (ANI): Prime Minsiter Dr. Manmohan Singh congratulated all the scientific and technical personnel of the DRDO and other related organisations for the successful launch of 5,000 km range Inter-Continental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) Agni-V on Thursday morning.

India test-fired for the first time its strategic missile, the over 5,000-km range Agni-V, in a bid to join the super exclusive ICBM (intercontinental ballistic missile) club that counts just US, Russia,China, France and UK as its members.

"I congratulate all the scientific and technical personnel of the DRDO and other organisations who have worked tirelessly in our endeavour to strengthen the defence and security of our country," Dr. Singh said.

"Today's successful Agni V test launch represents another milestone in our quest to add to the credibility of our security and preparedness and to continuously explore the frontiers of science. The nation stands together in honouring the scientific community," he added.

Defence Minister AK Antony spoke to DRDO Chief Dr VK Saraswat and Project Director Avinash Chander and congratulated them for this immaculate success of Agni-V.

The launch of Agni-V was delayed on Wednesday due to inclement weather at the test range in Wheeler Island off the coast of Odisha.

The test firing is a major leap forward in missile technology and military deterrent capability for the country.

India in November last tested the 3,500-km-range Agni-IV missile giving muscle to the country's deterrent capability against the military adversaries.

Agni-V is a solid fueled intercontinental ballistic missile. It will greatly expand India's reach to strike targets well beyond 5,500 km away.

The nuclear-capable, three-stage Agni-V, about 50-tonne in weight and 17.5-metre tall, will become fully operational by 2014-2015. (ANI)