Meet Sheena Rani, Scientist Behind Agni-5 Missile | Know How She Worked On Missile Launch Since 1999
In a monumental achievement hailed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as ‘Mission Divyastra,’ India conducted a successful test of the Agni-5 missile with multiple warheads yesterday. Leading this groundbreaking project was Sheena Rani, a distinguished scientist at the forefront of the nation’s missile complex in Hyderabad. Her journey with the Agni missile systems dates back to 1999.
Dubbed ‘Divya Putri,’ Rani, a powerhouse in her own right, spearheaded the development of the Agni-5 missile, adorned with Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology. This technological marvel marks the pinnacle of her illustrious 25-year career at India’s defence research agency.
Asserting her pride as a member of the DRDO fraternity, Rani emphasized her dedication to safeguarding India. Her path echoes the legacy of India’s renowned missile technologist, ‘Agni Putri’ Tessy Thomas, a pivotal figure in the Agni missile series.
Rani, aged 57, is renowned for her expertise in electronics, communications, and computer science. Her academic journey began at the College of Engineering in Thiruvananthapuram, followed by eight years at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Center (VSSC). Post the Pokhran Nuclear test of 1998, she transitioned to DRDO, focusing on the launch control systems for the Agni series.
Inspired by the visionary ‘Missile Man’ Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, Rani’s journey mirrors his trajectory from ISRO to DRDO. Dr Avinash Chander, a mentor figure, lauds Rani’s innovation and dedication to the Agni program, underscoring the significance of yesterday’s successful launch.
Rani’s husband, PSRS Sastry, also contributed to India’s defence endeavors, further illustrating the family’s commitment to national security.
The DRDO’s successful flight test of the Agni-5 missile, equipped with MIRV technology, signifies a significant milestone in India’s defence capabilities. This indigenous marvel empowers India with the ability to deploy multiple warheads, enhancing its strategic deterrence against adversaries.
Prime Minister Modi commended the DRDO scientists for their exceptional contribution to ‘Mission Divyastra,’ underscoring the significance of indigenous technological advancements in bolstering national security.
With the Agni-5 missile, India joins an elite group of nations possessing MIRV technology, cementing its position as a formidable force in regional geopolitics. This cutting-edge weapon system, boasting indigenous avionics and high-accuracy sensor packages, reinforces India’s prowess in missile technology, ensuring precise targeting capabilities across vast distances.
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