Agni-I uses the SLV-3 booster (from India's space program) for its first stage and a liquid-fueled Prithvi for its second stage.[35]
Nuclear-capable Agni-II missiles have a range of up to 3,000 km and can carry a payload of 1,000 kg.[36] Unlike the Agni-I, the Agni-II has a solid-fueled second stage.[37]
In July 2006, India successfully test-fired Agni-III,[38] a two-stage nuclear-capable ballistic missile with a range of 3,000 km.[39] Both stages of the Agni-III utilizes solid-fuel propellants and its range can be extended to 4,000 km.[40] The missile is capable of carrying a nuclear payload within the range of 600 to 1,800 kg including decoys and other anti-ballistic counter-measures.[41]
India's DRDO is also working on a submarine-launched ballistic missile version of the Agni-III missile, known as the Agni-III SL. This missile is expected to provide India with a credible sea-based second strike capability. According to Indian defense sources, Agni-III SL will have a range of 3,500 km. [42] In addition, the 5,000 km range Agni-V ICBM is expected to be tested by 2010-11.
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