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General Studies Paper – III: Technology, Economic Development, Bio-diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management
Context
On December 31, 2025, India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) ended the year with a major military achievement. A 'Salvo Launch' of two indigenous 'Pralay' missiles was successfully conducted from the same launcher at the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha. This test was part of the 'User Evaluation Trials,' signaling the imminent induction of this missile into the Indian Army.
What is a 'Salvo Launch' and its Significance?
In military terminology, 'Salvo' means firing multiple missiles one after another at the same target or area within a very short time interval.
- Strategic Objective: Its primary goal is to 'overload' the enemy's missile defense system (such as S-300 or S-400). When two missiles arrive simultaneously, it becomes nearly impossible for the defense system to intercept both at once, thereby increasing the guarantee of target destruction.
'Pralay' Missile: Technical Features
'Pralay' is India's first indigenous surface-to-surface quasi-ballistic missile.
- Strike Range: 150 kilometers to 500 kilometers (Short-Range Ballistic Missile - SRBM).
- Payload Capacity: It is capable of carrying conventional warheads weighing from 350 to 700 kilograms.
- Fuel System: It is powered by a solid propellant rocket motor, which provides it with quick reaction capability.
- Navigation: It is equipped with a state-of-the-art navigation and integrated avionics system, providing it with pin-point accuracy.
Quasi-Ballistic Technology: Impenetrable for the Enemy
Conventional ballistic missiles follow a parabolic path, which is easy to predict. However, 'Pralay' is a quasi-ballistic missile.
- It is capable of changing its path in mid-air (maneuvering).
- It can change its direction during the final phase of flight to deceive enemy radar and interceptor missiles, making it extremely difficult to shoot down.
Strategic Importance and the Concept of 'Rocket Force'
India is currently reorganizing its military power, and 'Pralay' will play a central role in this:
- Basis of Rocket Force: India is working on a plan to create a dedicated 'Rocket Force.' 'Pralay' will be the mainstay of this force, filling the gap between long-range artillery and cruise missiles (like BrahMos).
- Impact on LAC and LoC: China’s People's Liberation Army (PLA) already possesses a 'Rocket Force' (PLARF). The deployment of the Pralay missile will significantly strengthen India's defensive and offensive positions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and the Line of Control (LoC).
- Equivalent to China and Russia: This missile is the Indian answer to China's 'Dongfeng-12' (DF-12) and Russia's famous 'Iskander' missile system.
Atmanirbhar Bharat and Defence Export
The development of 'Pralay' is entirely indigenous, representing a major success for the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India) campaign. It not only reduces our dependence on imports but also opens up possibilities for export to friendly nations looking for powerful short-range defense systems.
Way Forward
- Mass Production: Now that user trials have been successful, the Ministry of Defence should focus on its mass production and integration into various regiments.
- Silos and Mobile Launchers: In the future, it will be crucial to develop the capability to launch it from mobile land-based launchers as well as other platforms.
- Technical Upgrade: Research should continue on slightly increasing its strike range beyond 500 km and reducing its radar signature.
Conclusion
The successful salvo launch of the 'Pralay' missile is not just a technical test, but a powerful demonstration of India’s 'Active Deterrence' policy. This success on the eve of 2026 reflects the unwavering resolve of Indian scientists and the military. This missile will not only protect the borders but also play a decisive role in maintaining the balance of power in South Asia in India's favor.