Pralay Missile Strengthens India’s Tactical Strike Capability

India has taken a major leap in battlefield missile capability with the successful user trial of the indigenous Pralay missile. The Defence Research and Development Organisation validated the system through a salvo launch conducted on December 31, 2025, underscoring India’s growing self-reliance in advanced missile technology and reinforcing its regional deterrence posture.

Successful Salvo Launch and Trial Objectives

The trial was carried out by the Defence Research and Development Organisation from the Integrated Test Range at Chandipur in Odisha. Two Pralay missiles were fired in quick succession from the same launcher, both striking designated targets with high precision. Defence officials confirmed that the trial validated accuracy, reliability and operational readiness, with tracking systems and telemetry data from the Bay of Bengal confirming mission success.

Key Technical Features of the Pralay Missile

Pralay is a surface-to-surface, solid-fuel, quasi-ballistic missile with a strike range between 150 km and 500 km, depending on payload. Unlike conventional ballistic missiles, it follows a depressed trajectory and can manoeuvre mid-flight, making interception by enemy air defence systems more difficult. The missile uses a ring-laser gyro-based navigation system and advanced terminal guidance, enabling a circular error probable of less than 10 metres.

Comparison With Global Tactical Missiles

With speeds exceeding Mach 6, Pralay is faster than the BrahMos cruise missile and compares favourably with global systems such as Russia’s Iskander-M and China’s DF-12. Defence analysts note that its higher payload capacity, manoeuvrability and precision give India a credible conventional strike option for battlefield scenarios, particularly against time-sensitive and high-value targets.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• Pralay is a quasi-ballistic, surface-to-surface missile with a 150–500 km range.
• The missile is developed by DRDO laboratories led by Research Centre Imarat.
• Quasi-ballistic missiles follow lower, manoeuvrable trajectories.
• Salvo launch capability allows multiple missiles from a single platform.

Induction Prospects and Strategic Significance

Following the successful trial, the Pralay missile system is now close to induction into the Indian Army. Private sector participation, including the development of canisterised launchers by Indian industry, supports scalable production and rapid deployment. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said the achievement strengthens national preparedness and aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision in strategic defence systems.