ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): India’s recent test of the nuclear-capable Agni-5 ballistic missile, capable of striking targets up to 5,000 km away, has triggered unease across the region—particularly in Turkey—as fears mount over Delhi’s expanding strategic reach.
According to Kashmir Media Service, India test-fired the Agni-5 from Chandipur in Odisha under the oversight of its Strategic Forces Command.
The missile’s long range, which now spans from Turkey to China, was explicitly highlighted in some Indian media reports and corroborated in international coverage.
Turkish media outlets have reacted strongly to these developments. The Turkish news portal Daily Sabah noted: “Indian media reports on New Delhi’s latest missile test noted that the nuclear-capable Agni-5 system… could reach targets ‘from Türkiye to China.’”
Separately, a defense commentary website summarised the Turkish media’s outrage: “Turkish media expressed outrage over Indian reports stating that the nuclear-capable Agni-5 missile… could target locations ‘from Türkiye to China.’”
These reactions reflect anxiety over the missile’s extended reach beyond India’s usual theater of regional tensions.
Indian authorities
While Indian authorities maintain the test was routine and aimed at deterring China and Pakistan, Turkey’s media underscored the gravity of being named within Agni-5’s potential range.
Analysts observe that India’s aggressive missile expansion, now encompassing Turkey, undermines regional security and raises legitimate international concerns.
The inclusion of Turkey—an important NATO member—in the missile’s strike radius broadens the scope of India’s military shadow and challenges the region’s strategic stability.
The global community must view Delhi’s actions with scrutiny and urge restraint. Mutual respect for sovereignty and transparent defence postures are critical to preventing the slide into regional militarization.
