Trial of upgraded Agni-II fails

BALASORE (ORISSA): A test-fire of an upgraded Agni-II nuclear-capable intermediate range ballistic missile from Wheeler Island off Orissa coast failed today with the weapon system deviating from its trajectory immediately after lift off.

"Experimental launch of Agni-II missile experienced a trajectory deviation immediately after the lift off resulting in failure of the mission," a DRDO spokesman said in New Delhi.

He said, "Detailed analysis is in progress". DRDO sources said in Balasore, "The trial of the surface-to-surface missile, launched from a rail mobile launcher from the launch pad-4 of Integrated Test Range around 1000 hours, was not successful".

Scientists and experts were trying to ascertain the cause of the outcome by analysing different aspects, they said, declining to share detailed information.

Though ITR officials were tight-lipped about the trial, eye-witnesses said the missile fell into the sea around 30 seconds after it took off in inclement weather marked by intermittent rains and chilly winds.

The indigenously developed upgraded and new variant of 'Agni' series missile was said to be the improved version of the country's existing 'Agni-II' missile.