India successfully test-fired its nuclear-capable Agni-5 intermediate-range ballistic missile from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha, on August 20, 2025. The missile, launched under the aegis of the Strategic Forces Command, validated all operational and technical parameters. Agni-5 is an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) with a range exceeding 5,000 kilometers and a speed of Mach 24 (approximately 28,600 km/h), forming the core of India’s nuclear deterrence capability. The missile is reportedly capable of carrying a nuclear warhead to any part of China, marking a strategic enhancement of India’s defense posture. This test comes shortly before Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to China. In addition to the missile test, India has recently advanced its defense technology with the successful trial of the Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS) off Odisha’s coast, which demonstrated the ability to shoot down multiple targets at different altitudes and ranges. India is also pursuing significant defense modernization efforts, including plans for increased defense exports valued at ₹12 lakh crore by 2047, upgrades to naval aviation with Rafale-M jets equipped with advanced electronic warfare systems, and development of indigenous marine propulsion systems. Meanwhile, Malaysia is advancing its shipbuilding sector and BYD is expanding its manufacturing footprint in Southeast Asia with a new plant in Malaysia.