The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with the Strategic Forces Command (SFC), successfully launched the Intermediate Range Agni-Prime missile from a rail-based mobile launcher on October 10, 2023. This launch represents a critical advancement in India’s missile technology and operational capabilities.
Defence Ministry officials highlighted that the Agni-Prime missile is a next-generation weapon system designed with a striking range of up to 2,000 km. It boasts advanced technological features that enhance its effectiveness in a full operational scenario.
The groundbreaking launch was conducted from a specially engineered rail-based mobile launcher that can seamlessly navigate the Indian rail network without requiring any extensive pre-launch conditions. This capability significantly improves cross-country mobility and allows for quick launch sequences with minimized visibility, thereby enhancing the strategic response of the Indian Armed Forces.
The missile is self-sufficient, featuring integrated launch capabilities alongside state-of-the-art communication systems and robust protection mechanisms to ensure mission success. Various ground stations meticulously tracked its trajectory throughout the launch.
This event marks a historic milestone as it meets all mission objectives flawlessly, signaling the potential for future induction of rail-based missile systems into the Indian defense arsenal.
The launch attracted attention from senior scientists at DRDO and officers from the Strategic Forces Command, who witnessed the successful test.
Notably, the road-mobile version of the Agni-P missile has previously been inducted into service following a series of successful flight trials. This development underscores the DRDO’s ongoing efforts to enhance India’s defense preparedness.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh extended his congratulations to the DRDO, SFC, and the armed forces for their successful execution of the Agni-Prime missile test. He remarked, “This flight test has launched India into the elite circle of nations that possess canisterized launch systems capable of operating from a rail network.”
Singh emphasized the significance of the launch, stating that the Agni-Prime missile’s strategic mobility enhances India’s deterrence capabilities. In a post on the social media platform X, he reiterated the missile’s potential to be launched from any location with quick reaction times.
In his address, the Secretary of the Department of Defence Research and Development and DRDO Chairman commended all teams involved for their hard work and dedication, which culminated in this successful launch.
This remarkable achievement heralds a new phase in India’s military capabilities and enhances the country’s defense readiness in the region.