In a major stride towards self-reliance and defense modernization, India has successfully conducted the first test of its rail-based Agni Prime missile system, marking a significant technological breakthrough. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) carried out the test at the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha. What makes this test historic is that the missile was launched from a moving train, showcasing India’s ability to deploy strategic weapons from mobile platforms. The Agni Prime is capable of carrying nuclear warheads and has a strike range of up to 2,000 kilometers, allowing it to neutralize deep strategic targets with precision. This achievement positions India among a select group of nations—including the USA, Russia, and North Korea—that possess mobile, rail-based missile launch capabilities. China is reportedly still in the process of developing a similar system. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO for the successful test, calling it a proud moment for the nation. With Indian Railways operating over 700,000 km of railway network, this system can be deployed flexibly across the country, making it highly unpredictable and strategic in wartime scenarios. This advancement further strengthens India’s deterrence capabilities under the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) initiative.
