India Showcases Military Might with Successful Missile Tests

Successful Missile Tests Off Odisha Coast

New Delhi: On Thursday, India successfully conducted test-firings of its nuclear-capable short-range ballistic missiles, Prithvi-II and Agni-I, from an integrated test range located off the coast of Odisha, showcasing its strategic deterrence capabilities.

The elite Strategic Forces Command carried out the missile tests, which confirmed all operational and technical specifications, as reported by the defence ministry.

Earlier, on Wednesday, India had also successfully test-fired the domestically developed Akash Prime missile in Ladakh, which has been adapted for operation at altitudes exceeding 4,500 meters.

These missile tests were conducted more than two months following the military conflict between India and Pakistan that occurred from May 7 to May 10.

The Prithvi-II missile boasts a range of approximately 350 kilometers and can carry a payload of up to 500 kilograms, capable of delivering both conventional and nuclear warheads.

Meanwhile, the Agni-I missile has a range between 700 to 900 kilometers and can transport a payload of 1,000 kilograms.

Both the Prithvi-II and Agni-I missiles play a crucial role in India's nuclear deterrent strategy.

The defence ministry stated, "Short-range ballistic missiles — Prithvi-II and Agni-I — were successfully test-fired from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha on July 17," confirming that all operational and technical parameters were validated.

The ministry highlighted that these tests were conducted under the supervision of the Strategic Forces Command.

Regarding the Akash missile test, the ministry noted its importance, especially following the impressive performance of India's indigenous air defence systems during Operation Sindoor.

The Akash Prime is an enhanced version of the Akash weapon system designed for the Indian Army.

The missile test in Ladakh is particularly significant due to its proximity to the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

On July 16, India marked a significant achievement by successfully destroying two high-speed aerial unmanned targets at high altitudes in Ladakh using the Akash Prime, as stated in a separate ministry announcement.

The weapon system has been customized for operations at altitudes above 4,500 meters and features the latest upgrades, including an indigenously developed radio frequency seeker.

The defence ministry emphasized that various enhancements have been made based on operational feedback to boost effectiveness, showcasing the advantages of the ecosystem established for indigenous weapon systems.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the Indian Army, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), and the industry for this "remarkable achievement."