India Successfully Test Fires Ballistic Missiles Prithvi-II and Agni-1 in Odisha and Ladakh

The Ministry of Defence successfully test-fired short-range ballistic missiles Prithvi-II and Agni-1 from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha on Thursday, July 17. The launches were conducted under the Strategic Forces Command, validating all operational and technical parameters.

Agni-I was the first ballistic missile test-fired from Abdul Kalam Island, while Prithvi-II was launched from Launch Pad No-III of the ITR, Chandipur. Earlier in the day, India tested the indigenously developed Akash Prime missile in Ladakh, customized for operation above 4,500 meters.

The test firing of Akash Prime follows the successful performance of India's indigenous air defense systems during Operation Sindoor. The upgraded variant of the Akash weapon system, Akash Prime, destroyed two high-speed unmanned targets at high altitude in Ladakh on July 16.

Based on user feedback, upgrades were made to enhance operational effectiveness, showcasing the advantage of the indigenous weapon system ecosystem. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commended the Indian Army, DRDO, and the defence industry for this achievement.

Army Air Defence, DRDO, Bharat Dynamics Limited, Bharat Electronics Limited, and other industry partners successfully validated the indigenously designed Akash Prime weapon system. The trials will facilitate timely induction and bolster air defense capabilities in high-altitude regions of India.

According to the source: Mint.