On September 25, 2025, India achieved a monumental feat. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully tested the Agni-Prime missile. This groundbreaking test was conducted from a rail-based mobile launcher at the Chandipur test range in Odisha. The missile is capable of hitting targets at a distance of 2000 kilometers. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh hailed it as a national pride. But what makes testing on a rail launcher so special?
The rail launcher is a unique system that resembles a train moving along tracks. The missile is kept in a canister (a sealed box). This train can fire the missile while on the move. Previously, missiles were launched from fixed sites or trucks, but the rail launcher can outsmart enemies. This test is a significant step for India because...
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Rapid Deployment: The missile can be launched immediately upon stopping, with very little reaction time.
Extended Range: Capable of striking targets up to 2000 km, easily targeting enemy bases.
Stealth: The train looks like a regular cargo train, making it hard for enemies to detect.
Elite Membership: With this technology, India joins the ranks of nations like the USA, China, Russia, and North Korea, bolstering our 'Make in India' initiative, strengthening our defense.
The missile system's power multiplies with a rail launcher. Here are some key advantages...
Enhanced Security: This train can move around the rail network, making it difficult for enemies to locate. This increases the capacity to withstand a first strike.
Swift Readiness: Launch is possible while still in motion, requiring no extensive preparation.
Concealment: When mixed with cargo trains, it's unnoticeable to foes. Operational flexibility is greatly enhanced.
Multiple Launches: Several missiles can be stored on a single train, enabling rapid and robust attacks.
Weather Resilience: The canister design operates effectively regardless of rain, dust, or heat.
These advantages provide quick reactions at India's borders, especially when facing threats from countries like China or Pakistan.
Source: aajtak
Every innovation comes with its drawbacks, and the rail launcher is no exception...
High Costs: Building and maintaining this system is highly expensive. This is why nations like the USA haven’t fully embraced it.
Maintenance Challenges: Caring for missiles on a moving train is complex, demanding frequent inspections.
Reliance on Rail: It can only operate on rail lines, limiting its use in dense forests or mountainous regions. If railways are destroyed in bombings, it poses problems.
Risk of Detection: An enemy monitoring rail networks can track the train.
Size Constraints: Large missiles like ICBMs make the train heavy, possibly reducing speed.
Nevertheless, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks, particularly for major powers.
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Globally, very few countries possess rail-based ballistic missile launchers. Only 3-4 nations have developed this capability...
Source: aajtak
Russia (formerly USSR): Had the RT-23 Molodets (SS-24 Scalpel) system, which is no longer in operation.
The United States: Linked LGM-118 Peacekeeper missile to rail launchers but discontinued after some time. Currently, no such operational system exists.
North Korea: Conducted rail missile tests in 2021, launching short-range missiles.
China: Mostly employs truck-based systems but is working on rail capabilities.
This club is small, and India's inclusion showcases its strength on the global stage.
The Agni-Prime rail launcher test elevates India's strategic power to new heights. Not only does it enhance attack speed and range, but it also intimidates adversaries. Challenges exist, but the benefits are substantial. This missile will soon be inducted into the army, demonstrating that India is now part of the world's elite defense club.
