Pralay Missile Showcased at Republic Day Parade

Why in the news?

India’s first indigenous quasi-ballistic missile, Pralay, was showcased during the Republic Day parade. With a 400 km range, it enhances conventional strike capabilities and is ready for induction following successful development trials.

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Key Features of Pralay Missile:

  • Pralay, India’s first indigenous short-range quasi-ballistic missile, was showcased by the DRDO at the Republic Day parade in New Delhi.
  • Designed for the Army and Air Force, it is India’s first ballistic missile for conventional strikes.
  • Features a range of 400 km and can be deployed along both the Line of Control (LoC) and the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
  • Equipped with a twin launcher configuration mounted on an Ashok Leyland 12×12 high-mobility vehicle.

Development and Induction:

  • Development trials of Pralay are complete, with the Defence Ministry granting Acceptance of Necessity for induction.
  • Approved for procurement by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) in 2023.
  • Enhances India’s stand-off strike capability, complementing BrahMos and Prahaar missiles.

Additional Defence Systems:

  • The Army’s Battle Surveillance System, “Sanjay”, was also showcased during the parade.
  • The DAC has also approved the procurement of:
    • Nirbhay long-range subsonic land-attack cruise missiles with a range of 1,000 km.
    • A few hundred tactical ballistic missiles, including Pralay and Nirbhay.
  • A new derivative of Nirbhay has undergone recent flight tests, with trials ongoing.

These systems collectively strengthen India’s long-range conventional strike capabilities and bolster its defence readiness along critical borders.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times