NEW DELHI: India again successfully test-fired a nuclear-capable missile today that can hit targets across much of Asia and the Middle East, an official said.

It was the fourth test of the Agni III missile, the official at the Defence Research and Development Organisation said on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to talk to the media. The first attempt in 2006 failed, but last two tests were successful.

India’s current arsenal

of missiles is largely intended for confronting archrival Pakistan. The Agni III, in contrast, is India’s longest-range missile, designed

to reach 3,000 km -

putting China’s major cities well into range, as well as Middle Eastern targets.

India’s homegrown missile arsenal already includes the short-range Prithvi ballistic missile, the medium-range Akash, the anti-tank Nag and the supersonic Brahmos missile, developed jointly with Russia. The missile was launched from Wheeler Island off the eastern state of Orissa this morning. The test appeared unlikely to significantly raise tensions in the region.

India and Pakistan usually notify each other ahead of such missile launches, in keeping with an agreement between the two nations.