DRDO’s Agni-5 launch: Sheena Rani who led the Agni-5 mission, know more about her
Sheena Rani served as the program director for DRDO‘sAgni-5, was named “Scientist of the Year” in 2016.
New Delhi, 13 March 2024
The Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully launched the Agni-5 missile on Monday. Several women scientists contributed significantly to the project, including Sheena Rani from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The 57 year old scientist was the program director for Agni-5. Sheena Rani joined the DRDO as a lateral entry member in 1999, following the 1998 nuclear testing at Pokhran II. Since then, she has actively participated in the Agni missile program. Sheena Rani holds a degree in electronics and communications engineering and specializes in computer science. Following her education at the College of Engineering in Thiruvananthapuram, she spent eight years working at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, India’s premier civilian rocketry facility. While working at the DRDO, Sheena Rani accomplished a lot, one of which was being named “Scientist of the Year” in 2016.
Under the banner of “Mission Divyastra,” India achieved a historic milestone by conducting the first-ever flight test of the Agni-5 missile, a indigenous creation equipped with Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology. This accomplishment places India among the select nations with such advanced missile capabilities. Launched from APJ Abdul Kalam Island in Odisha, the missile surpassed all planned parameters, showcasing its MIRV capabilities. The defense ministry confirmed the successful test and highlighted the significance of this technological feat.
With a range exceeding 5,000 kilometers, the Agni-5 is powered by a three-stage solid fuel engine, making it a formidable force. MIRVs, capable of carrying multiple warheads, amplify the destructive potential compared to traditional single-warhead missiles. DRDO’s Agni missile series has seen continuous advancements, including the Agni-1 (700 km range), Agni-2 (2,000 km range), Agni-3 (3,000 km range), and Agni-4 (4,000 km range). The successful Agni-5 test stands as a testament to India’s prowess in indigenous missile technology.
This achievement not only solidifies India’s position in the global space arena but also emphasizes the crucial role that women scientists play in pushing the boundaries of innovation. Sheena Rani and her team’s leadership underscore the increasing prominence of women in India’s space and defense sectors, breaking barriers and inspiring future generations.
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