Achievement: Agni Prime missile successfully tested from rail launcher for the first time, with a range of 2000 km

New Delhi: India has taken a major step forward. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully tested the intermediate-range Agni Prime missile. This new-generation missile was launched from a rail-based mobile launcher. The test was a complete success.

This is the first time the missile was fired from a specially designed rail launcher. This makes India one of the few countries that possesses a canisterized launch system that can launch missiles while moving on a rail network.

What is Agni Prime? A new-generation super missile
Agni Prime is the most advanced missile in the Agni series. It has an intermediate range and can hit targets up to 2000 kilometers.

It boasts several advanced features…

• Precise targeting: Advanced navigation systems allow it to accurately hit enemy targets.
• Fast reaction: Can be launched in a short time, even in poor visibility.
• Robust design: Stored in a canister, protecting it from rain, dust, or heat.

This missile is designed for India’s Strategic Forces Command. The test was conducted at the Chandipur Integrated Test Range in Odisha.

Rail Launcher’s Specialty: Attack anywhere, anytime
The highlight of this test is the rail-based mobile launcher. This uniquely designed system…
Can be moved without preparation on the rail network.
Provides cross-country mobility, meaning it can be easily transported in forests, mountains, or plains.
Short launch time: Can fire the missile immediately upon stopping.
Operates in low visibility: Safe even in fog or at night.
Previously, missiles were fired from fixed sites, but this launcher can evade the enemy. The ability to launch while on rail has increased India’s missile capability manifold.

Test Success: India’s Pride
The DRDO, SFC, and the Indian Armed Forces jointly conducted this test. Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted his congratulations. He stated that the successful test of Agni-Prime has made India one of the few countries with a canister launch system that operates on rail networks. This test is part of India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ plan. This is the sixth missile in the Agni series, which is already deployed in the Army.

Why is this test important?

• Strategic strength: The ability to respond to the enemy anywhere, anytime.
• Enhance security: Rapid response at the borders will prevent infiltration.
• Global status: India will be at par with countries like the US and Russia.
• Future: Agni-Prime will soon be inducted into the Army.