New Delhi (Gurpreet Singh): The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Thursday successfully flight-tested the indigenously developed Pralay quasi-ballistic missile off the Odisha coast, taking the system closer to induction into the armed forces.
The test was conducted at around 11.10 am from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island. The Ministry of Defence said all test objectives were achieved, with the results confirmed by data recorded through various range instruments.
Senior DRDO officials, representatives from the defence industry and members of the armed forces were present during the trial, which was conducted as part of user evaluation tests.
What makes the Pralay missile different?
Pralay is a solid-propellant, quasi-ballistic missile with a reported range of around 500 km. It combines characteristics of ballistic and cruise missiles.
Unlike conventional ballistic missiles that follow a largely predictable trajectory, Pralay can manoeuvre during flight while remaining within the atmosphere. Its ability to alter its course can make interception more challenging for enemy air defence systems.
The missile uses indigenous guidance and navigation technologies designed to deliver high accuracy. It can also carry different types of warheads, according to the Defence Ministry.
DRDO’s Research Centre Imarat led development
Pralay has been developed by DRDO’s Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in Hyderabad, in collaboration with other laboratories of the organisation.
Bharat Dynamics Limited, one of the development-cum-production partners, has manufactured the missile system.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the armed forces and industry partners on the successful test. He said the missile’s advanced technologies would strengthen the military’s technological capabilities and operational preparedness against emerging threats.
Defence Secretary and DRDO Chairman Rajesh Kumar Singh also congratulated the teams involved in the flight test.
