In a major boost to its firepower, the Defence Ministry has approved the procurement of a regiment of ‘Pralay’ ballistic missiles for the Indian Army for deployment along the LAC and LoC, that is, borders with China and Pakistan.

‘Pralay’ Ballistic Missiles for Indian Army

“This is a major decision for the Indian Army as the proposal to acquire a regiment of the Pralay ballistic missiles which can hit targets between 150-500 Km, was cleared by the recent Defence Acquisition Council meeting”.

‘Pralay’ is a quasi-ballistic surface-to-surface missile. The advanced missile has been developed in a way to be able to defeat interceptor missiles. It has the ability to change its path after covering a certain range in midair.

‘Pralay’ is powered by a solid propellant rocket motor and other new technologies. The missile guidance system includes state-of-the-art navigation and integrated avionics.

The Project to Develop Pralay was Sanctioned in March 2015 with a budget of ₹332.88 crore (equivalent to ₹500 crore or US$63 million in 2023).

Pralay carries 350 kg to 700 kg high explosive preformed fragmentation warhead, Penetration-Cum-Blast (PCB) and Runway Denial Penetration Submunition (RDPS) at a range of 150 km to 500 km.

Accuracy: <10 m

Diameter: 420 mm, within 750 mm

Engine: Two stage rocket motor with 3^rd stage

Guidance system: Inertial navigation system

Length: 7,5 – 11 m

Propellant: Solid

“Both China and Pakistan have ballistic missiles which are for tactical roles. The missiles developed by the DRDO is being further developed and its range can be extended significantly if the forces want it,” the sources said.

The missile system started developing around 2015 and the development of such a capability was given a push by the late General Bipin Rawat as Chief of Army Staff. The missile was successfully tested twice on consecutive days last year on December 21 and December 22.