DRDO successfully conducted the first rail-based test of the Agni-Prime missile. This missile has a strike range of up to 2000 kilometers and enhances India's defense capability and strategic flexibility.
New Delhi. India has achieved a major success in the defense sector. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully tested the Agni-Prime missile. The highlight of this test is that the missile was launched from a rail-based mobile launcher system. India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh shared information about this test and its video on his official X handle.
First Launch from a Rail Launcher
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated that this first launch of the Agni-Prime missile was carried out from a specially designed rail-based mobile launcher. This launcher can operate on the rail network without any preconditions. Its characteristic feature is that it provides mobility across the country, allowing missiles to be launched with a short response time even in low visibility.
The use of rail-based launchers provides soldiers with greater strategic flexibility. This system facilitates rapid and secure missile launches by utilizing the rail network across the country.
Success and Significance of the Test
The Defence Minister congratulated DRDO, the Strategic Forces Command (SFC), and the Armed Forces on the successful test of the medium-range Agni-Prime missile. He stated that this test has placed India among the select group of nations that have the capability to develop canisterized launch systems from a rail network.
Features of the Agni-Prime Missile
The Agni-Prime missile is an advanced-generation ballistic missile. It is designed for a strike range of up to 2000 kilometers. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated that the missile is equipped with several modern technologies and has been made capable of carrying nuclear warheads.
Agni-Prime fulfills all mission objectives with a high level of accuracy. Its manufacturing process has been entirely indigenously carried out by DRDO in India. This missile further strengthens the country's strategic prowess.
India's Other Agni Missiles
India already possesses missiles from the Agni series, which include Agni-1 to Agni-5. The range of Agni-1 to Agni-4 varies from 700 kilometers to 3,500 kilometers. Agni-5 has a range of up to 5,000 kilometers.
The strike range of these missiles extends across the Asian region, including China's far northern areas and parts of Europe. The Agni-Prime missile introduces new technology and greater flexibility to this series.
Contribution of DRDO and the Armed Forces
DRDO, the Armed Forces, and the Strategic Forces Command played a crucial role in this test. All teams collaboratively ensured the security and success of the entire missile system. The Defence Minister commended this joint effort.
With the rail-based launching system, missiles can be deployed anywhere, at any time. This technology boosts India's strategic readiness and retaliatory capability.
