In a groundbreaking achievement, the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO), in partnership with the Strategic Forces Command (SFC), successfully launched the Intermediate Range Agni-Prime missile on a rail-based mobile launcher system. This notable test occurred yesterday under full operational conditions.
The Agni-Prime Missile boasts a range of up to 2,000 kilometers and incorporates several advanced features aimed at enhancing India’s defence capabilities. The launch, conducted from a specially designed rail-based mobile platform, signals a significant advancement in India’s strategic arsenal.
This is the first successful launch of its kind, showcasing the missile’s capability to navigate the rail network without pre-requisite conditions. The rail launcher not only offers cross-country mobility but also enables a quick launch with minimal visibility, a critical factor in modern warfare.
The Agni-Prime missile is self-sustained and contains independent launch capability features. It is equipped with state-of-the-art communication systems and robust protection mechanisms to ensure operational effectiveness.
During the flight, various ground stations monitored the missile’s trajectory, confirming that it met all mission objectives during what was described as a “textbook launch.” This trial sets the stage for the induction of innovative rail-based systems into service.
The successful test was observed by senior DRDO scientists and high-ranking officials from the Strategic Forces Command. The Agni-P missile, a road mobile variant, has already been integrated into India’s military assets after concluding a series of successful flight trials.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed his congratulations to the DRDO, SFC, and the armed forces on this successful test of the Intermediate Range Agni-Prime missile. Singh emphasized that this flight test elevates India into a select group of nations capable of deploying canisterized launch systems from rail networks.
He stated, “This next generation missile is designed to cover a range of up to 2,000 km and possesses many advanced features. The capability to operate within a rail network allows for operational flexibility and quick launch readiness.”
Additionally, the Minister commended the collaborative effort of the DRDO and SFC, remarking that the successful flight test places India alongside nations such as the US and Russia, who similarly possess advanced rail-based missile technologies.
The Chairman of DRDO and Secretary of the Department of Defence Research and Development also lauded the hard work of all teams involved in this significant accomplishment, affirming that progress in missile technology is crucial to ensuring national security.
This successful demonstration of the Agni-Prime reinforces India’s commitment to enhancing its military capabilities and serves as a deterrent against potential threats. India’s continued development in this field not only boosts national security but also positions it as a leader in strategic defence technology on the global stage.
