South Asia's nuclear shadow

News Online examines the relative strengths of India and Pakistan's nuclear capabilities and conventional weaponry

Developed in 1998, the Agni II missile is the mainstay of India's nuclear strike force.

Utilising a solid fuel propulsion system, it can be prepared for firing within 15 minutes.

With a range of 2,500km, the Agni II's range extends deep into Chinese territory. India is believed to be developing a new model capable of travelling further.

Pakistan's Shaheen II missile has a range of about 2,000 km, allowing it to hit most Indian cities.

Analysts believe it is based on a Chinese design - but do not suggest that Beijing has supplied the missiles to Pakistan.

Pakistan also has a number of shorter range Ghauri missiles, which are thought to be able to hit targets within a range of 1,350 - 1,500 km.