India recently conducted a significant missile defense test, showcasing its advancements in ballistic missile defense (BMD) capabilities. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully tested the Phase-II Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) interceptor AD-1 missile. This missile is capable of intercepting long-range ballistic missiles and aircraft under both low exo-atmospheric and endo-atmospheric conditions, enhancing India's defense against potential threats (The Diplomat) (IDRW).
Additionally, India tested a new-generation nuclear-capable ballistic missile, the 'Agni Prime' or 'Agni-P.' This missile is part of India's efforts to modernize its missile arsenal and is equipped with Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology, allowing a single missile to carry multiple warheads. The MIRV capability provides strategic flexibility, enabling the targeting of multiple locations or a single location with enhanced accuracy. This test places India among the few nations with MIRV technology, including the United States, Russia, and China (The Diplomat) (Hindustan Times).
The expansion of India's BMD system to include major southern cities like Bangalore and Chennai further underscores the country's commitment to strengthening its national security. This strategic development ensures comprehensive coverage and enhances India's readiness against evolving missile threats (IDRW).
