Pralay Missile’s strategic significance pushes case for early induction into air defence units

In a significant development, India conducted a successful flight test of the indigenously developed surface-to-surface tactical missile 'Pralay' from a defence facility off the Odisha coast. The test, carried out on Tuesday, marks a crucial step towards the missile's early induction into the Armed Forces.  

The 'Pralay' missile, a short-range ballistic missile (SRBM), is the result of extensive research and development by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It represents a fusion of technologies used in the Prithvi Defence Vehicle (PDV) interceptor missile and the Prahaar tactical missile. This advanced SRBM was launched from Abdul Kalam Island, demonstrating its full operational capability. The test, conducted at approximately 10 am, successfully achieved all its mission objectives. 

Precision and versatility  

The 'Pralay' missile demonstrated its precision and versatility during the test. It followed the intended ballistic trajectory, reaching its designated target with a high degree of accuracy. This successful test validated the missile's control, guidance, and mission algorithms, showcasing its ability to operate over its entire range.

The first trial, conducted on 22 December 2021 from Abdul Kalam Island, showcased the missile's prowess. It followed a quasi-ballistic trajectory and precisely hit its designated target at a range of 400 km. The test affirmed the missile's control, guidance system, and mission algorithms, cementing its reliability. 

In a subsequent trial on 23 December 2021, the Pralay missile was subjected to a heavier payload, verifying its lethality and accuracy. During this test, it covered the maximum range of 500 km. The trials were monitored by an array of advanced instruments, including telemetry, radar, and electro-optic tracking systems, deployed across the eastern coast and onboard downrange ships near the impact point. 

The test on Tuesday marked the third successful test of the 'Pralay' missile, coming two years after two consecutive trials in 2021. The missile is canisterized and powered by a solid propellant rocket motor, giving it a strike range of up to 500 km. One of its notable features is the ability to perform mid-air maneuvers using a maneuverable reentry vehicle (MaRV), making it capable of defeating anti-ballistic missile interceptors. 

Pralay's unique capabilities 

The 'Pralay' missile, known for its speed and accuracy, weighs approximately five tonnes. With a payload capacity of 1,000 kg, it can travel up to 350 km. If the payload is halved, it can hit targets as far as 500 km. Its propulsion system relies on composite propellant developed by the Pune-based High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL). Additionally, the missile employs an inertial navigation system for mid-course guidance. 

In light of the 2020–2021 China–India skirmishes, the Indian Armed Forces recognized the strategic significance of the Pralay missile. This acknowledgment led to a proposal for the acquisition of 120 Pralay missiles, which was subsequently cleared by the Ministry of Defence on 25 December 2022. 

The successful development and imminent induction of the Pralay missile mark an important milestone in India's quest for a robust Rocket Force. This indigenous weapon system is poised to play a pivotal role in safeguarding the nation's security and deterring aggression from neighboring adversaries, making it a crucial asset in India's defense arsenal. 

The 'Pralay' missile can be compared to other missiles such as China's Dong Feng 12 (CSS-X-15), Russia's 9k 720 Iskander, and the US Army's Precision Strike Missile (PrSM). However, the development of the 'Pralay' was primarily driven by the Indian Army's need for a 500-km range SRBM capable of carrying a substantial payload.