In a significant demonstration of its strategic and air defence capabilities, India successfully test-fired its short-range ballistic missiles, Prithvi-II and Agni-I, from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha, the Ministry of Defence said in a statement on Thursday.
The tests, conducted under the aegis of the Strategic Forces Command, validated all operational and technical parameters of the two ballistic missile systems, bolstering India’s nuclear-capable missile arsenal.
In a separate high-altitude success, India also tested the Akash Prime air defence system on July 16 in Ladakh. The system intercepted and destroyed two aerial high-speed unmanned targets at altitudes exceeding 4,500 meters — a feat achieved by the upgraded variant of the Akash Weapon System developed specifically for the Indian Army.
Akash Prime features a number of indigenous upgrades, including a locally developed Radio Frequency (RF) seeker. Developed by the DRDO in collaboration with Bharat Dynamics Limited, Bharat Electronics Limited, and other industry partners, the system was validated during the “First of Production Model” firing trials.
These successful tests, following the performance of indigenous defence systems in Operation Sindoor, reflect the growing strength of India’s missile and air defence capabilities. The Akash Prime is now expected to be inducted soon, enhancing India’s preparedness along high-altitude frontiers.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the Indian Army, DRDO, and the defence industry for the dual successes, describing the achievements as “a major boost to India’s operational capabilities in challenging terrains.”
Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Secretary of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, also praised the teams, stating that the successful tests mark a critical advancement in fulfilling India’s high-altitude air defence needs.
