In its effort to have a full-fledged multi-layer Ballistic Missile Defence system, India on Wednesday successfully test-fired its indigenously developed supersonic interceptor missile, capable of destroying any incoming hostile ballistic missile, from a test range off Odisha coast.
Notably, Prithvi is India’s first indigenously-built ballistic missile. It is one of the five missiles being developed under the country’s Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme.
With a strike range of 350 km, the surface-to-surface Prithvi-II is capable of carrying 500 kg to 1,000 kg of warheads and is thrusted by liquid propulsion twin engines.
The success of Advanced Air Defence interceptor missile test now strengthens India’s position in the very exclusive Ballistic Missile Defence club of the US, Russia and Israel.