India achieved a significant milestone on Monday with the successful test flight of the indigenously developed Agni-5 missile, equipped with Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology.
Leading the charge in this historic moment was Sheena Rani, a distinguished scientist from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
Under the banner of ‘Mission Divyastra’, India launched the Agni-5 missile from the APJ Abdul Kalam Island in Odisha. The missile, designed by DRDO, showcased its MIRV capabilities by meeting all intended parameters, elevating India into an exclusive league of nations possessing such advanced technology.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded the scientists at DRDO for their accomplishment, highlighting the crucial role played by Sheena Rani and her team in the success of the mission. While Shankari Chandrasekaran served as the project director, Sheena Rani held the position of programme director specifically for the Agni-5.
At DRDO's Advanced Systems Laboratory in Hyderabad, Sheena Rani spearheaded the development of the Agni-5 missile, which boasts a range exceeding 5,000 km. Powered by a three-stage solid fuel engine, the missile’s MIRV capabilities enable it to carry multiple warheads, significantly enhancing its destructive potential.
Sheena Rani, 57, is a missile specialist with a degree in electronics and communications engineering, coupled with specialized knowledge in computer science. Her journey in the field of aerospace began at the College of Engineering in Thiruvananthapuram, followed by eight years of experience at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), India's premier civilian rocketry laboratory.
Inspired by the legacy of the ‘Missile Man’ and former DRDO chief APJ Abdul Kalam, Sheena Rani transitioned to DRDO in 1999, following the Pokhran-II nuclear tests. Since then, she has been actively involved in various projects under the Agni missile programme, showcasing her expertise and leadership skills.
Throughout her career, Sheena Rani has garnered numerous accolades, including the prestigious “Scientist of the Year” award in 2016. Her dedication and contributions to India’s defence capabilities have been instrumental in shaping the nation’s strategic prowess.
Notably, Sheena Rani’s husband, PSRS Sastry, is also associated with DRDO and has contributed to missile projects. His involvement in the Kautilya Satellite launched by ISRO in 2019 underscores the family's commitment to advancing India’s technological capabilities, particularly in the realm of defence and space.
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