The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with the Strategic Forces Command (SFC), successfully launched the Agni-Prime missile from a rail-based mobile launcher on March 28, 2023. This successful test elevates India’s standing among nations with advanced missile technology.
Launched in a full operational scenario, the Agni-Prime missile boasts an impressive range of up to 2,000 km. The Defence Ministry noted that this next-generation missile is equipped with several advanced features, ensuring enhanced strategic capabilities.
The launch occurred yesterday from a specially designed rail-based mobile launcher. This innovative system can operate on existing rail networks without prior preparations, showcasing unrivaled cross-country mobility. Its ability to launch quickly with minimal visibility marks a significant enhancement in India’s military readiness.
The Agni-Prime missile comes with self-sustained features and an independent launch capability, supported by sophisticated communication systems and robust protection mechanisms. Ground stations monitored the missile’s trajectory, affirming that the test was a textbook success, fulfilling all mission objectives. This pivotal launch paves the way for the future induction of rail-based systems into the Indian armed forces.
The event witnessed participation from senior DRDO scientists and officers from the Strategic Forces Command. Highlighting the strategic importance of this launch, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the teams involved. He expressed pride in India’s achievement, declaring it a part of an elite group of nations equipped with canisterised launch systems operable from rail networks.
“This flight test has placed India among select nations that have developed sophisticated canisterised launch systems, enhancing our national security,” Singh remarked in a statement on social media platform X.
The road-mobile Agni-P has already been inducted into Indian military services following a series of successful trials. Meanwhile, Secretary of the Department of Defence Research and Development and Chairman of DRDO praised the efforts of all teams contributing to this successful launch.
As India continues to enhance its defense capabilities, the Agni-Prime missile underscores a significant step forward in operational versatility and rapid response ability. The successful integration of mobile launch systems solidifies India’s commitment to maintaining strategic deterrence.
