Missile test launch deferred

Balasore: The test launch of a new surface-to-air missile, developed jointly by India and Israel, was deferred today due to unspecified reason.

The trial was postponed though preparation for conducting the maiden test of the newly developed missile from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) off Odisha coast had reached the final stage, said an ITR official.

No reason was, however, given for postponing the test launch of the missile.

Arrangements are being made to conduct the test tomorrow if weather permits, DRDO sources said.

Apart from the missile, the system includes a multi- functional surveillance and threat alert radar (MF STAR) for detection, tracking and guidance of the missile.

The test-firing of the missile is to be jointly carried out by Indian defence personnel, DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries, they said.

As a precautionary measure, Balasore district administration in consultation with defence officials made adequate arrangements to again temporarily shift 3652 civilians residing within 2.5 km radius of the launch pad No 3 of the ITR tomorrow, officials said.

Similar exercise had been made for the test proposed for today.

A district revenue official said seven hamlets have been identified within 2.5 km radius of the launch pad and people living there have been alerted through public address system to shift to nearby shelter camps arranged by the administration.

Fisherman engaged in sea fishing along the Bay of Bengal in three coastal districts Balasore, Bhadrakh and Kendrapada have been warned not to venture into the sea during planned test launch time.