India has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) indicating preparations for a significant missile test in the Bay of Bengal, scheduled between October 15 and 17, 2025. The designated test corridor covers a maximum missile range of 1,480 kilometres, suggesting a medium- or intermediate-range missile trial, shorter than the long-range Agni-V ICBM test conducted successfully in August 2025.
The upcoming trial is expected to involve missile systems such as Agni-III, Agni-IV, or a new variant under development. Defence analysts note that the 1,480 km range aligns with operational requirements for tactical-to-strategic deployment, bridging India’s layered missile deterrence capabilities.
“The Bay of Bengal has been a preferred maritime test range, offering vast unpopulated zones to ensure safety of sea lanes and air traffic,” defence experts said.
The previous Agni-V ICBM test in August, with a 5,000 km range, marked a milestone in India’s strategic deterrence, enhancing its credible second-strike capability. This forthcoming test is expected to validate improvements in missile accuracy, propulsion systems, and warhead delivery effectiveness, further strengthening operational readiness.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Strategic Forces Command (SFC) oversee India’s missile programme, which continues to evolve as part of the nation’s broader modernisation and indigenous defence initiatives.
The issuance of the NOTAM ensures coordinated planning and safety across air and maritime routes, highlighting India’s commitment to controlled and secure strategic weapons development. Observers and analysts will be closely monitoring the test, assessing telemetry data and performance parameters to gauge advancements in missile technology.
This upcoming trial underscores India’s ongoing efforts to enhance regional deterrence and signal robust indigenous defence innovation, consolidating its status as a key strategic player in global security dynamics.
