NEW DELHI: In a powerful display of its growing defence capabilities, India successfully test-fired the nuclear-capable Prithvi-II and Agni-I short-range ballistic missiles from the Integrated Test Range at Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha, on Thursday. The tests reaffirmed India’s strategic deterrence posture and validated all key operational and technical parameters.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the launches were conducted under the supervision of the Strategic Forces Command and mark another milestone in India’s efforts to maintain credible minimum deterrence. The Prithvi-II missile, with a range of approximately 350 kilometres, is capable of carrying both conventional and nuclear warheads up to 500 kg. Meanwhile, the Agni-I missile boasts a range between 700 to 900 kilometres and can carry a payload of up to 1,000 kg.
“These tests validated all operational and technical parameters,” the ministry said in an official statement, adding that both missiles remain an integral part of India’s nuclear-capable arsenal.
This strategic demonstration comes just a day after the successful test-firing of the Akash Prime missile system in the high-altitude region of Ladakh. This indigenously developed air defence system, tailored for operations above 4,500 metres, destroyed two high-speed unmanned aerial targets in a precision strike, marking a significant achievement for India’s air defence preparedness, especially along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
Akash Prime is an upgraded variant of the Akash missile system, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) specifically for the Indian Army. The missile includes enhanced features like an indigenously developed radio frequency seeker, enabling more accurate targeting and better performance in challenging terrain.
“The Akash Prime test is a significant milestone, particularly following the exceptional performance of India’s indigenous air defence systems during Operation Sindoor,” the defence ministry stated. Based on feedback from field users, several upgrades were incorporated to improve the system’s operational effectiveness, showcasing the resilience and innovation of India’s indigenous defence ecosystem.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded the Indian Army, DRDO, and the Indian defence industry for these achievements. “These successful tests highlight the growing self-reliance and technological advancement of India’s defence sector,” he said.
The back-to-back missile tests underscore India’s commitment to strengthening its defensive capabilities amid evolving regional challenges. They also serve as a strategic message of readiness and deterrence following the recent military conflict between India and Pakistan earlier this year.
India’s continued progress in indigenous missile development and deployment reflects a robust push toward self-sufficiency under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, aimed at reducing reliance on foreign defence imports and enhancing national security.
