The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has achieved a significant milestone with the successful conduct of user trials for the Pralay short-range ballistic missile. The trials, held at Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha, underscore India’s growing capabilities in indigenous defence technology.
On Wednesday, the DRDO test-fired two Pralay missiles at approximately 10:00 am, followed by an additional launch shortly thereafter. These trials were part of a scheduled user-level assessment to evaluate the missile’s performance under defined operational parameters. Defence officials confirmed that all launches met the stated objectives, with no deviations reported during the testing process.
Pralay, a short-range ballistic missile with an operational strike range of 150 km to 500 km, is designed for conventional combat roles. It is capable of delivering high-precision strikes against strategic targets, including radar installations, command centres, and airstrips. The missile’s ability to carry a conventional warhead weighing between 500 kg and 1,000 kg offers flexibility for a range of mission requirements.
The missile’s advanced Inertial Navigation System (INS), supported by a radio frequency seeker, enables accurate guidance throughout its flight. These systems allow the missile to maintain its intended trajectory and achieve a high degree of target accuracy. According to officials, the latest user trials were conducted to validate these navigation and precision capabilities under operational conditions, further strengthening confidence in the missile’s readiness for deployment.
“The successful trials of the Pralay missile mark a significant step forward in India’s quest for self-reliance in defence manufacturing,” said a senior defence official. “The missile’s advanced navigation and accuracy systems, coupled with its conventional warhead capability, make it a formidable addition to our defence arsenal.”
The Pralay missile, developed using indigenous technologies, reflects India’s ongoing efforts to enhance self-reliance in defence manufacturing. The successful trials are expected to pave the way for the missile’s operational deployment, further bolstering India’s strategic capabilities.
As India continues to invest in advanced defence technologies, the Pralay missile stands as a testament to the country’s commitment to innovation and self-sufficiency in the defence sector. The successful trials not only validate the missile’s capabilities but also highlight the DRDO’s role in driving India’s defence technological advancements.