India successfully test-fires Prithvi-II and Agni-I ballistic missiles
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New Delhi: India successfully test-fired its indigenously developed short-range ballistic missile Prithvi-II and the Agni-I ballistic missile from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha, on Thursday, according to the Ministry of Defense.
The launches, conducted under the aegis of the Strategic Forces Command, were part of routine training and validation exercises. Both missiles achieved their intended targets, successfully meeting all operational objectives and technical parameters.
The Defense Ministry said in a statement that these tests reaffirm the reliability and accuracy of India’s nuclear-capable delivery systems, adding that they mark a significant step forward in strengthening the country’s strategic capabilities.
The Prithvi and Agni missile series are part of India’s indigenous missile development program and form a crucial pillar of the nation's strategic defense system.
The successful trials came just a day after the Indian Army carried out another key defense test, the indigenous Akash Prime air defense system, in the high-altitude region of Ladakh at around 15,000 feet.
Developed by the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), the Akash Prime was tested in the presence of senior officials from both the Army’s Air Defense wing and DRDO. During the trial, the surface-to-air missiles successfully intercepted and destroyed two high-speed aerial targets with precision.
Conducting the test in the rarefied atmosphere of Ladakh demonstrates the system’s effectiveness in extreme conditions, defense officials said.
The Akash Prime system is set to be integrated into the Army’s third and fourth Akash Regiments, significantly bolstering India’s air defense network.
Notably, the Akash system played a key role during Operation Sindoor, when it was deployed to thwart aerial threats, including Chinese fighter jets and Turkish drones operated by Pakistani forces.
Defense analysts say these successful trials highlight India’s growing self-reliance in defense technology and reinforce its preparedness to counter emerging threats.
