India has recently conducted a series of missile tests, showcasing its growing capabilities in both ballistic and air defense systems. These tests include the Akash Prime air defense system, the Prithvi-II short-range ballistic missile, and the Agni-I ballistic missile.

Akash Prime

The Indian Army successfully tested the Akash Prime, an upgraded version of the Akash missile system, in the high-altitude Ladakh sector. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) developed this system, which is designed to operate effectively in thin air and low temperatures. The Akash Prime test, conducted at an altitude of over 15,000 feet, involved intercepting and destroying two high-speed unmanned aerial targets. The missile scored direct hits, demonstrating its precision and adaptability in challenging conditions.

Key features of the Akash Prime missile system include an indigenous active Radio Frequency (RF) seeker for enhanced accuracy and the ability to engage multiple targets simultaneously using real-time multi-sensor data. It has a strike range of up to 30 km and travels at a supersonic speed of around Mach 2.5. The Akash Prime is designed to defend mobile and static assets from aerial threats. It has demonstrated its operational value, including during Operation Sindoor, where it successfully intercepted aerial threats. Following the successful trial, the Akash Prime will be inducted into the Army's third and fourth Akash missile regiments.

Prithvi-II

The Prithvi-II is a short-range, surface-to-surface ballistic missile developed by DRDO under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program. On July 17, 2025, India successfully test-fired the Prithvi-II from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur, Odisha. This test was part of routine user training launches conducted by the Strategic Forces Command (SFC).

The Prithvi-II has a range of 250-350 km and can carry conventional or nuclear warheads. It uses a liquid propulsion system with inertial navigation for accurate targeting. The missile was inducted into India's Strategic Forces Command in 2003 and is an integral part of India's nuclear deterrence.

Agni-I

The Agni-I is a short-range ballistic missile developed by DRDO. It was also successfully test-fired on July 17, 2025, from the Integrated Test Range at Chandipur, Odisha, alongside the Prithvi-II. The Strategic Forces Command conducted the launch as part of a periodic routine trial.

The Agni-I has a range of 700-900 km and can carry a 1,000 kg payload, including nuclear warheads. It is a single-stage, solid-fuel, road and rail mobile missile. The Agni-I was developed after the Kargil War to bridge the gap between the Prithvi-II and the longer-range Agni-II missiles. It is a crucial component of India's "minimum credible deterrence" strategy.

Strategic Significance

These successful missile tests demonstrate India's commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities and maintaining a credible nuclear deterrence. The concurrent testing of the Prithvi-II and Agni-I missiles sends a strategic message, particularly to Pakistan, following recent border tensions. The Akash Prime's high-altitude test in Ladakh, near the Line of Actual Control (LAC), underscores India's focus on strengthening its air defense capabilities in sensitive border regions. These tests align with India's broader goal of building a self-reliant and resilient indigenous missile defense ecosystem under the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative.