The Indian Defense Ministry has taken a significant step to enhance the country’s military capabilities by approving the procurement of a regiment of Pralay ballistic missiles for the Indian Army. These missiles are intended for deployment along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and Line of Control (LoC), which mark the borders with China and Pakistan, respectively.
This decision marks a major development for the Indian Army, as the Pralay ballistic missiles, with a range of 150-500 kilometers, have received the green light during a recent meeting of the Defence Acquisition Council. The Army plans to deploy these missiles with conventional warheads, utilizing them in tactical roles. Notably, a similar proposal for the acquisition of these missiles for the Indian Air Force was also recently approved.
This acquisition is significant as it aligns with India’s evolving policy, allowing the use of ballistic missiles in tactical roles. Both China and Pakistan already possess ballistic missiles designed for tactical purposes. The Pralay missile, developed by the Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), can potentially see its range extended if the need arises.
The development of the Pralay missile system began around 2015, with a push from the late General Bipin Rawat, who served as Chief of Army Staff. The missile successfully underwent testing on two consecutive days in December of the previous year.
The Pralay missile is categorized as a quasi-ballistic surface-to-surface missile, designed to have the capability to defeat interceptor missiles. One of its distinctive features is its ability to change its trajectory mid-flight after covering a certain range. It’s powered by a solid propellant rocket motor and boasts advanced technologies in its guidance system, including state-of-the-art navigation and integrated avionics. This development marks a significant stride in bolstering India’s defense capabilities along its borders.