The Strategic Forces Command of the Indian Army on Saturday successfully test-fired the Prithvi-II missile. The surface-to-surface nuclear-capable missile was test-fired from the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha at 11.04 hrs.

The trial, carried out by the user was part of the continuous exercise to gauge its effectiveness in real-time situations. It was launched from a mobile launcher, according to a Defence Ministry press release.

The Prithvi-II is capable of attacking targets at ranges up to 350 km. It has been inducted into the defence forces. The Strategic Force Command, which has the responsibility for the missile launch, has, as part of regular training, conducted the test. The objective was to demonstrate the control and guidance system and improve training.

The single stage liquid propelled vehicle is one of the first missiles developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation. Bharat Dynamics Ltd has manufactured the missile — which is 9 metres long and can carry a payload of up to 500 kg — for the the Indian Army.

All the radars, electro optical systems located along the coast have tracked and monitored all the parameters of the missile throughout its flight path. An Indian Navy ship located near the target in the Bay-of–Bengal witnessed the final event, the release said.

>somashekar.s@thehindu.co.in

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