DRDO Successfully Tests Pralay Missile With Consecutive Salvo Launch

India has achieved another major milestone in strengthening its missile capabilities. The Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) successfully conducted a salvo launch of two Pralay missiles in quick succession from a single launcher. The test validated the missile’s accuracy, reliability, and operational readiness which is marking a key step towards its induction into the Indian Armed Forces.

Why in the News?

Defence Research and Development Organization successfully carried out a salvo launch of two Pralay missiles on December 31, 2025, from the Odisha coast. The user evaluation trial confirmed the missile’s precision, reliability, and readiness for deployment.

Key Details of the Missile Test

• Two Pralay missiles were launched in quick succession from the same launcher
• Test conducted off the coast of Odisha at around 10:30 AM on December 31, 2025
• The launch was part of user evaluation trials
• Both missiles followed the intended trajectory and met all mission objectives
• Tracking sensors at the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, and onboard telemetry systems confirmed successful terminal performance.

Technical Features of Pralay Missile

• Solid propellant, quasi-ballistic missile
• State-of-the-art guidance and navigation system
• High precision and accuracy
• Capability to carry multiple warhead types
• Designed for flexibility against varied targets
• These features make Pralay a reliable and versatile addition to India’s missile arsenal.

Development and Industry Collaboration

• The missile has been developed by Research Centre Imarat (Hyderabad) in collaboration with multiple DRDO laboratories.
• Key production and integration support was provided by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), along with other Indian industries.
• The trials were witnessed by scientists, representatives of the Indian Army and Indian Air Force, and industry partners.

About Pralay Missile

• Pralay is an indigenously developed quasi-ballistic missile powered by a solid propellant.
• It is designed for high-precision strikes against a wide range of targets.
• The missile uses advanced guidance and navigation systems and can carry different types of warheads, making it suitable for modern battlefield requirements.

Strategic Significance of the Test

• Demonstrates salvo launch capability, enhancing battlefield effectiveness
• Confirms reliability and operational readiness of the missile system
• Strengthens India’s indigenous missile development program
• Indicates imminent induction of Pralay into the Armed Forces
• Rajnath Singh praised DRDO, the Armed Forces, and industry partners for the successful test, highlighting its importance for national defence.

Key Points At Glance

Question

Q1. The Pralay missile tested by DRDO is best described as:

A. Cruise missile with liquid fuel
B. Intercontinental ballistic missile
C. Solid propellant quasi ballistic missile
D. Surface-to-air missile