India test fires Prithvi II missile

The launch of the surface-to-surface missiles capable of carrying nuclear payloads was claimed to be a success
Hardnews Bureau

India successfully test fired two indigenously developed surface-to-surface Prithvi II missiles on Monday. The missiles were launched by mobile launchers as part of trials conducted by the Indian army. Hardnews learnt that missiles were test fired in quick succession at 10.28 am and 10.33 am.

These missiles are capable of carrying both nuclear and conventional payloads. Moreover, these missiles can operate on solid and liquid fuels.

The twin engine missiles are nine metre in length with a width of one metre. Sources revealed that the missiles have the capability of deceiving enemy missiles and are equipped with added inertial navigation systems to bolster their performance.

The missiles, with a range of 150 km to350 km, were test fired from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur, 15 km from Balasore in Orissa. Long range multi function radars and electro-optic telemetry stations were pushed in action for post launch analysis of the missiles.

VK Saraswat, scientific advisor to defence minister, top scientists and army officers were present during the trials which were supervised by scientists of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Logistical support was provided by the ITR.

The missiles have already been inducted by the armed forces in 2002 and are handled by the army units attached to the strategic force command's special group.