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| PAD Exo-atmospheric interceptor missile (Wiki Info - Image: Wiki Commons) |
By Debalina Ghoshal
Although its capabilities are improving, planned implementation is questionable.
Late last month, on April 27, India was reportedly able to conduct a successful test fire of an anti-ballistic missile system, with an incoming missile apparently intercepted at high altitude. India’s indigenous missile defense program involves a two-tier system that includes both exoatmospheric and endoatmospheric interceptors. These interceptors are reportedly able to intercept incoming ballistic missiles. The target missile for the test was apparently a mimic of the Prithvi II variant. The interceptor was reported to be a component of the Advanced Air Defence (AAD) program of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
The Statesman reported the test as involving an exoatmospheric interceptor missile. This missile is reported to be capable of intercepting incoming missiles with ranges of 2000 km. According to reports, India’s DRDO has successfully conducted six interceptor missiles that include endoatmospheric and exoatmospheric interception. With both Prithvi Air Defence (PAD) and AAD being developed, India can now intercept incoming missiles from 100 km away. According to reports, India will now seek to develop missile interceptors at altitudes of above 150 km. The Prithvi Defence Vehicle used for these tests will be used for intercepting missiles above 100 km. It is reported to be a two-stage interceptor to be powered by solid propellants. It would be fitted to a system that would control the vehicle even at altitudes above 150 km. The DRDO will also develop advanced software systems to achieve a high hit-to-kill probability. The interceptor is expected to replace the PAD interceptor in the future.
India tested its interceptor missile for the first time in 2011. In 2012, the DRDO confirmed that the Phase I of the BMD system would be deployed by 2014. The DRDO confirmed that the BMD system would be implemented in cities like Delhi and Mumbai and later used to cover other cities.
Read the full story at The Diplomat