Agni-IV, India's latest nuclear-capable strategic missile, was showcased publicly for the first time Thursday at the Republic Day parade.

The missile formed part of a tableau from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), its developer.

The DRDO contingent, led by Lt. Col. V.S. Thapa, also showed new tactical battlefield support high-speed missile Prahaar and the medium altitude long endurance unmanned aerial vehicle Rustom-I.

Agni-IV, the most potent and technologically advanced in India's arsenal, adds a new dimension to country's capabilities in terms of strategic deterrence.

The missile was successfully tested for the first time in November 2011, after its initial failure in the earlier avatar as Agni-II Prime in 2010.

Capable of being sent aloft from a self-contained road mobile launcher from anywhere, the two-stage surface-to-surface missile with solid-propulsion can reach targets 3,500 km away.

A quantum leap in indigenous technology, Agni-IV incorporates a composite rocket motor casing, a highly accurate guidance and navigation system, modern and compact avionics, digital control system and many contemporary and advanced technologies making it comparable to the best in the world.