India successfully tests Agni-Prime missile from rail-based launcher

India on Sep 25 successfully conducted a first-of-its-kind test launch of the Agni-Prime missile from a rail-based mobile launcher system.

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh confirmed the test in a post on social media, stating that the missile was launched from a specially designed rail platform that can move across the national railway network.

The Agni-Prime is an intermediate-range ballistic missile, designed for a strike range of up to 2,000 km.

According to the Defense Minister, the rail-based launcher offers cross-country mobility, enabling rapid deployment without requiring fixed sites.

He noted that this capability would reduce exposure and improve survivability of strategic assets.

Officials say that integrating the missile system with the rail network allows more flexibility in launching locations, making tracking and targeting by adversaries more complex.

The test was carried out by agencies including DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation) and India's Strategic Forces Command (SFC).

This development marks a significant step in India’s indigenous missile and deterrence capabilities, especially in terms of mobility and concealment.