The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Wednesday successfully conducted user trials of the indigenously developed Pralay short-range ballistic missile from Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha. The trials form part of the final stages of evaluation to assess the missile’s operational readiness and performance under field conditions.

According to officials, two test launches were carried out during the exercise, with both missiles meeting all mission objectives. The trials were conducted as part of the user evaluation phase to validate the missile’s accuracy, reliability, and operational capabilities.

The Pralay missile is a conventionally armed, surface-to-surface weapon system with a strike range of approximately 150 to 500 kilometres. Designed to deliver precision strikes against high-value targets such as enemy radar installations, command centres, and airbases, the missile is a key addition to India’s tactical missile arsenal.

Developed indigenously by DRDO, the system incorporates advanced guidance technologies, including an inertial navigation system integrated with a radio frequency seeker, ensuring high accuracy and maneuverability during flight. The missile is capable of carrying a payload ranging from 500 kg to 1,000 kg.

Officials stated that the successful trials mark a significant step forward in strengthening India’s conventional deterrence capabilities and reflect the country’s growing self-reliance in defence technology.