Pralay Missile: Range, Speed, Features & Specifications for UPSC Notes
The Pralay missile, developed by DRDO, is India’s advanced tactical surface-to-surface ballistic missile designed for high‑precision conventional strikes. With a missile range of 150–500 km, the Pralay missile can target enemy command centers, airbases, and logistics hubs deep inside the battlefield. Its quasi‑ballistic trajectory allows mid‑air course correction, making it difficult to intercept by enemy air defense systems. Powered by a solid‑propellant rocket motor and capable of carrying 350–700 kg conventional warheads, the Pralay tactical ballistic missile strengthens India’s non‑nuclear deterrence.
For UPSC aspirants, understanding the Pralay tactical ballistic missiles, their specifications, and strategic importance is crucial for defense and security topics in the exam.
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About Pralay Missiles
The Pralay missile is a tactical ballistic missile that is unique because of its ability to be a quasi ballistic missile. This means that unlike a standard ballistic missile that follows a predictable path, Pralay can change its flight path mid-air. This makes it unpredictable and helps it avoid being shot down by enemy anti-missile systems. It is intended for battlefield use, striking high-value military targets with precision.
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Feature |
Details |
|
Type |
Tactical Surface-to-Surface Ballistic Missile |
|
Pralay Missile Range |
150 – 500 km |
|
Pralay Missile Speed |
Supersonic; reaches hypersonic in terminal phase |
|
Payload Capacity |
350 – 700 kg (conventional warheads) |
|
Propellant Type |
Solid propellant |
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Pralay Missile Launch Platform |
Road-mobile launcher |
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Guidance System |
Advanced navigation with mid-course correction |
|
Manufacturer |
Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) |
|
Developer |
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) |
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Testing Site |
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha |
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Role |
Tactical strikes on high-value battlefield targets |
Pralay Missile Latest NewsIn July 2025, the DRDO conducted two consecutive flight tests of the Pralay missile on July 28 and 29 from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha. These tests validated the missile’s range (150–500 km), quasi-ballistic trajectory, and precision guidance systems, demonstrating India’s growing capability in tactical surface-to-surface ballistic missiles for battlefield use. Notably, Pralay is a heavy (≈5,000 kg), radar-evasive missile launched from a mobile platform, enhancing operational flexibility and security. It is now cleared for induction and production by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) . |
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Key Features and Specifications of Pralay Missiles
The Pralay missile specifications showcase its ability to hit targets with high accuracy. The missile is powered by a solid-propellant rocket motor, which allows for a quick and effective launch.
- Pralay Missile Range: The missile can hit targets between 150 to 500 kilometers away. This makes it perfect for use in border conflicts, allowing the armed forces to strike key targets far behind enemy lines.
- Pralay Missile Speed: The pralay missile speed is supersonic, meaning it travels faster than the speed of sound. During its final approach to a target, it can even reach hypersonic velocity, making it extremely difficult for any enemy defense system to intercept.
- Payload: The missile can carry a payload (warhead) of up to 350-700 kg. This allows it to be fitted with various conventional warheads depending on the mission.
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The DRDO started developing the Pralay missile to provide the military with a reliable tactical weapon. The technology used in Pralay is based on other successful Indian missile programs.
A series of successful Pralay missile test launches have been conducted from Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Island. These tests confirmed that the missile's guidance system and its ability to change its path during flight work perfectly. The successful trials led to its quick approval for service. The main Pralay missile manufacturer is Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), which is responsible for mass-producing the missile.
Development and Testing HistoryThe development of the Pralay missile began under DRDO’s tactical missile program to equip the Indian Army with a modern conventional strike weapon. Its design incorporates solid-fuel technology and advanced guidance systems, derived from India’s successful missile programs like Prithvi and Shaurya. Key Development Milestones
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The pralay ballistic missiles are considered pralay tactical ballistic missiles because they are designed for battlefield use. They are a powerful conventional deterrent, and their importance to India's military strategy can be understood through the following points:
- Non-Nuclear Deterrence: Pralay provides the Indian Army and Air Force a way to strike high-value military targets like enemy command centers, airfields, and troop formations without using long-range strategic weapons, which helps in managing conflicts without the risk of greater escalation.
- Operational Flexibility: The missile’s ability to be launched from a mobile launcher gives it high flexibility, allowing it to be deployed quickly wherever it is needed.
- Precision and Accuracy: The missile's advanced guidance system ensures a high degree of accuracy, which is essential for hitting specific targets on the battlefield.
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