India has recently performed a successful test launch of the tactical ballistic missile, Prithvi-II. The launch took place from a test range situated off the Odisha coast. This article delves deeper into the key aspects and highlights connected to the Prithvi-II missile.
Understanding the Prithvi-II Missile
The Prithvi-II is an indigenously developed Surface-to-Surface Short-Range Ballistic Missile (SRBM). It is capable of travelling approximately 350km and can carry a payload of one tonne. Interestingly, Prithvi II class is a single-stage, liquid-fueled missile that features a warhead mounting capability varying between 500 kg to 1000kg.
The Prithvi-II missile is recognised for its precision in striking targets owing to its advanced inertial guidance system and manoeuvring trajectory. The Indian Air Force was the initial primary user of this missile, which was later inducted into the Indian Army. The missile was first incorporated into India’s Strategic Forces Command in 2003, and the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP) facilitated its development.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) of India holds the credit for developing the Prithvi-II missile under its Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP).
Exploring the Prithvi Missiles
The Prithvi missile system comprises various tactical Surface-to-Surface Short-Range Ballistic Missiles (SRBMs), with their development beginning in 1983. It was India’s first indigenous ballistic missile, which was first test-fired in 1988, from Sriharikota, SHAR Centre. The missile hovers around a range of 150 to 300 km.
The naval variants of Prithvi I and Prithvi III class missiles are code-named Dhanush. The propulsion technology of these missiles is supposedly based on the Soviet SA-2 surface-to-air missile.
About Soviet SA-2 Surface-to-Air Missile
Developed in the mid-1950s, the Soviet SA-2 surface-to-air missile was the first successful surface-to-air missile of the Soviet Union. The missile was initially developed as a battlefield missile capable of carrying a nuclear warhead in its role as a tactical nuclear weapon.
The Journey of Prithvi Missiles
The Prithvi I missiles have been a part of the Indian Army since 1994. Recent reports suggest that Prahar missiles are replacing the Prithvi I missiles. The Prithvi II missiles were inducted into service in 1996. The Prithvi III missile, with a greater range of 350 km, had a successful test-fired in 2004.
A Glimpse at UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question
One question from the 2014 exam asked about the Agni-IV Missile. The question asked to identify correct statements from options such as: it is a surface-to-surface missile, it is fuelled by liquid propellant only, and it can deliver one-tonne nuclear warheads about 7500 km away. The answer revealed that Agni-IV is a nuclear-capable long-range ballistic missile of India, with a strike range of 4,000 km. It is a two-stage solid fuelled system that can carry a one-tonne nuclear warhead over a distance of 4,000 kilometres.
Last Modified: February 19, 2024