India has successfully test-fired nuclear-capable short range ballistic missiles Prithvi-II and Agni-I from an integrated test range off the Odisha coast, demonstrating its strategic deterrence capability.
The test-firing of the missiles, conducted by the elite Strategic Forces Command, validated all operational and technical parameters, according to the defence ministry.
Earlier , India successfully test-fired indigenously developed Akash Prime missile in Ladakh that has been customised to operate at an altitude above 4,500 metres.
The test-firing of the missiles came over two months after the May 7-10 military conflict between India and Pakistan.
The Prithvi-II missile has a range of around 350 kms and it is capable of carrying a payload of up to 500 kgs. It can carry both conventional as well as nuclear warheads.
The Agni-I missile has a range of 700-900 kms and it can carry a payload of 1,000 kgs.
Both Prithvi-II and Agni-I missiles have been an integral part of India’s nuclear deterrence.
“Short-range ballistic missiles — Prithvi-II and Agni-I — were successfully test-fired from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha on July 17,” the ministry said in a brief statement.
