DRDO Achieves Milestone with Successful Flight Test of Phase-II Ballistic Missile Defence System

The trial commenced at 1620 hrs with the launch of a target missile from LC-IV at Dhamra, simulating an adversary's ballistic missile.

On July 24, 2024, the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted a flight test of its Phase-II Ballistic Missile Defence System. The test was a significant demonstration of India's indigenous capabilities to counter advanced ballistic missile threats.

The trial commenced at 1620 hrs with the launch of a target missile from LC-IV at Dhamra, simulating an adversary's ballistic missile. This target was promptly detected by weapon system radars stationed on land and at sea, which activated the Advanced Defence (AD) Interceptor system.

At 1624 hrs, the Phase-II AD Endo-atmospheric missile was launched from LC-III at the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur. The flight test successfully met all objectives, validating the comprehensive network-centric warfare weapon system. This system integrates long-range sensors, low latency communication channels, and advanced interceptor missiles, demonstrating the nation’s capability to defend against ballistic missiles with ranges up to 5000 km.

The performance of the missile was closely monitored using a range of tracking instruments, including electro-optical systems, radar, and telemetry stations, deployed across various locations, including onboard ships.

The Phase-II AD Endo-atmospheric missile is a two-stage, solid-propellant, ground-launched missile designed to neutralize various ballistic missile threats within the endo-atmospheric to low exo-atmospheric altitude range. It incorporates cutting-edge indigenous technologies developed by DRDO laboratories.

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh lauded DRDO for the successful flight test, highlighting it as a testament to India's advanced ballistic missile defense capabilities. Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, congratulated the entire DRDO team for their relentless efforts and contributions leading to the successful trial.

This milestone reinforces India's commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities through indigenous technology and innovation.