India’s Defence Prowess Gets Double Boost with Strategic Missile Tests and High-Altitude Air Defence Milestone
New Delhi: In a significant demonstration of its burgeoning defence capabilities, India has successfully test-fired two crucial short-range ballistic missiles, Prithvi-II and Agni-I, from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha. These strategic validation trials, conducted on Thursday under the vigilant eyes of the Strategic Forces Command, affirmed all technical and operational parameters, further cementing the nation’s short-range strike potential.
This potent display of missile strength followed closely on the heels of another remarkable achievement just two days prior. On July 16, the Indian Army showcased a significant leap in air defence technology by successfully intercepting and destroying two high-speed aerial targets at high altitude in Ladakh. This formidable feat was accomplished using Akash Prime, an upgraded iteration of the indigenous Akash Weapon System, marking a critical milestone in India’s quest for self-reliance in high-altitude combat operations.
The Akash Prime system has been meticulously tailored for operations above 4,500 metres, boasting a new indigenous Radio Frequency seeker that promises enhanced accuracy and superior target engagement. Officials confirmed that this upgraded system incorporates multiple enhancements, based on invaluable feedback from field units, to significantly boost its operational performance in challenging mountainous terrains.
The successful validation trials in Ladakh were conducted as part of the First of Production Model firing, a collaborative effort involving Army Air Defence, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Bharat Dynamics Limited, Bharat Electronics Limited, and other esteemed industry partners. This synergy underscores India’s growing ecosystem for indigenous defence manufacturing.
According to defence officials, the resounding success of the Akash Prime weapon system is expected to accelerate its induction into the armed forces, thereby substantially fortifying India’s air defence capabilities, particularly in its high-altitude regions. This critical development gains added significance following the system’s strong performance during the recently concluded Operation Sindoor, reaffirming India’s unwavering commitment to self-reliance in defence technology.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded these achievements, hailing them as a major fillip to India’s preparedness in mountainous theatres. Dr. Samir V Kamat, Chairman of DRDO, also extended his commendations to the dedicated teams involved, confirming that the indigenously developed missile system now proficiently meets the nation’s crucial high-altitude defence requirements.
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