India successfully tests Agni-Prime Missile from rail-based

In Brief

• India's Historic Achievement

• Launched Agni Prime Missile from a Moving Train

• India becomes the fourth country in the world to conduct a missile test

( Agni-Prime missile ) Defense Minister Rajnath Singh informed that India successfully launched the Agni-Prime medium-range missile from a railway. He shared videos of the launch scenes on 'X'. This test is considered important for enhancing the country's defense capabilities. India successfully tested the Agni Prime missile, capable of striking up to 2000 km, from a mobile launcher mounted on a train.

The rail-based launcher provides the military with greater mobility across the country. Missiles can be transported via rail even in areas where there are no roads or where operations are difficult without road assistance. Additionally, missiles can be concealed near tunnels or underpasses, out of enemy satellite view, and launched at the last moment. India has become the fourth country in the world to conduct missile tests.

Since it relies on railway tracks, this system cannot be used where there are no tracks; also, the security of the tracks and potential vandalism can be major risks during wartime. In some cases, the necessary complaints or launch parameters for accurate targeting may not be available on the railway platform. The road-mobile version of 'Agni-Prime' has already been included in the army's fleet after several successful tests.

Looking at history, there are some examples of rail-based missile projects worldwide. The former Soviet Union and the United States had previously implemented these ideas. This successful test has placed India among the select countries developing rail-based launch systems. This system can be used to expand strategic options related to the country's defense, but it is also necessary to consider its technical limitations and security risks.