India’s Defence Ministry announced on Thursday that the country has successfully tested two short-range ballistic missiles — Prithvi-II and Agni-I. The tests took place at the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha.
Test Details
- The launch happened on July 17, 2025, under the direction of the Strategic Forces Command, which controls India’s nuclear weapon force.
- “The launches validated all operational and technical parameters,” according to the Defence Ministry, showing the missiles meet set standards and are ready for use.
What Are These Missiles?
- Prithvi-II is a surface-to-surface missile, meaning it gets launched from land and hits a land target. It was built by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). This missile has a range of about 250–350 kilometers and can carry both regular and nuclear warheads. It uses liquid fuel for launch and is designed to hit targets with high accuracy using special navigation systems.
- Agni-I is a bit bigger, also a ballistic missile that can carry regular or nuclear warheads. Its range is between 700 and 900 kilometers and it can carry a payload of about 1,000 kilograms. Agni-I is designed to be moved on trucks or trains, making it flexible on the battlefield. It fills the gap between the shorter-range Prithvi missiles and the longer-range Agni series.
Importance of the Test
- India regularly tests these missiles to make sure its defence systems are reliable.
- By completing these tests, India shows it is always improving and checking its defence technology.
- The use of both Prithvi-II and Agni-I strengthens India’s aim for a credible minimum nuclear deterrence, helping its strategy to prevent threats from other countries in the region.
Recent Missile Developments
- This test comes a day after India test-fired the Akash Prime missile, an upgraded air defence system that can work at high altitude, especially useful in areas like Ladakh.
Official Statement
The Defence Ministry said:
“Short-range ballistic missiles – Prithvi-II and Agni-I – were successfully test-fired from the integrated test range in Chandipur, Odisha on July 17. The launches validated all operational and technical parameters. These tests were conducted under the aegis of the Strategic Forces Command.”
India’s defence forces continue to upgrade and test their technology to make sure they are fully ready. The success of these missile launches shows their systems are operational and up to international standards.
