Prithvi-II and Agni-I Ballistic Missiles

  • 19 Jul 2025

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India recently conducted successful test-firings of its nuclear-capable short-range ballistic missiles Prithvi-II and Agni-I from the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, Odisha. The trials aimed to validate operational readiness and technical reliability of India’s strategic missile systems.

These tests follow closely on the heels of the Indian Army's successful high-altitude test of the Akash Prime air defence system in Ladakh, underscoring India’s advancing indigenous defence capabilities.

Strategic Significance

  • Conducted by: Strategic Forces Command (SFC) under routine training and validation exercises.
  • Developed by: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP).
  • Purpose:
    • To validate accuracy, technical parameters, and combat readiness.
    • To reinforce India’s nuclear deterrence and second-strike capability.
    • To ensure strategic preparedness post the May 2025 Indo-Pak conflict.

Prithvi-II Missile: Key Features

Parameter

Details

Type

Short-range, surface-to-surface ballistic missile

Range

~350 km

Propulsion

Liquid-fuelled

Payload Capacity

Up to 500 kg

Warhead Type

Conventional and nuclear

Navigation

Advanced inertial navigation system

Deployment

Road-mobile launcher

Speed

Above Mach 1

Role

Part of India’s tactical nuclear strike capability

Agni-I Missile: Key Features

Parameter

Details

Type

Short-range, single-stage ballistic missile

Range

700–900 km

Propulsion

Solid-fuelled

Payload Capacity

Up to 1,000 kg

Warhead Type

Conventional and nuclear

Accuracy

High precision with advanced guidance

Induction

Early 2000s, operational with Indian Army

Strategic Role

Integral to India’s minimum credible deterrence posture