India has recently demonstrated progress in its missile defence and strategic capabilities. On 17 July 2025, the country successfully test-fired two nuclear-capable short-range ballistic missiles, Prithvi-II and Agni-I. These launches took place at the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha. The tests confirmed that both missiles met operational and technical standards, reinforcing India’s nuclear deterrence.
Prithvi-II and Agni-I Missile Tests
The Prithvi-II missile has a range of approximately 350 kilometres. It can carry a warhead weighing up to 500 kilograms. It is capable of delivering both nuclear and conventional payloads. The Agni-I missile has a longer range, between 700 and 900 kilometres, and can carry a 1,000 kilogram payload. Both missiles play a vital role in India’s strategic forces and nuclear deterrence policy. The Strategic Forces Command conducted these tests to validate the missiles’ performance under operational conditions.
Akash Prime Missile Test in Ladakh
One day before the ballistic missile tests, India successfully tested the Akash Prime missile in Ladakh’s high-altitude region. This missile is an upgraded version of the Akash air defence system, specially designed to operate above 4,500 metres altitude. It destroyed two high-speed unmanned aerial targets during the test. The Akash Prime features an indigenously developed radio frequency seeker and other improvements based on user feedback. The test’s location near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) puts stress on its strategic importance in the context of India-China border tensions.
Significance for Indigenous Defence Capability
These missile tests show India’s focus on strengthening indigenous defence technologies. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian defence industry have played crucial roles in developing these systems. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the success as a remarkable achievement. The Akash Prime’s performance follows notable successes in recent operations, reflecting the growing reliability of homegrown defence equipment. This progress supports India’s aim to reduce dependence on foreign weapon systems.
Strategic and Regional Implications
The successful tests of nuclear-capable ballistic missiles and advanced air defence systems enhance India’s strategic deterrence. They send a strong message about India’s preparedness and technological prowess. The location of the Akash Prime test near the LAC is amid ongoing border disputes with China. These developments contribute to regional security dynamics and India’s ability to respond to aerial threats at high altitudes.
Questions for UPSC:
- Point out the strategic importance of nuclear-capable ballistic missiles in India’s defence policy and their role in regional security.
- Critically analyse the impact of indigenous missile development on India’s defence self-reliance and international relations with weapon-exporting countries.
- Underline the challenges faced by India in defending high-altitude border regions and how missile defence systems like Akash Prime address these challenges.
- Estimate the role of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in advancing India’s military technology and its significance for future warfare capabilities.
