DRDO conducts user trials of Pralay Short-Range Ballistic Missile off Odisha coast

A series of user trials of the Pralay ballistic missile were successfully conducted on Wednesday from Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha, marking another step in the testing of the short-range surface-to-surface weapon system developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Two missiles were test-fired at around 10 am, followed by another launch shortly thereafter, as part of the scheduled evaluation process.

Officials said the trials were user-level tests carried out to assess the missile’s operational performance under defined parameters. No deviations from the planned trial objectives were reported during the tests.

Missile Capabilities And Design

Pralay is a short-range ballistic missile with a reported strike capability of 150 km to 500 km. Designed for conventional warfare roles, the missile is capable of delivering high-precision strikes against strategic targets such as radar installations, command centres and airstrips.

Developed using indigenous technology, the missile reflects DRDO’s efforts to strengthen domestic defence manufacturing and reduce dependence on imported systems. The weapon system can carry a conventional warhead weighing between 500 kg and 1,000 kg.

Navigation And Accuracy Systems

The missile is equipped with an advanced Inertial Navigation System (INS), supported by a radio frequency seeker, to ensure accuracy. These systems enable precise targeting during flight, allowing the missile to maintain its intended trajectory and achieve high impact accuracy.

Officials said the trials were conducted to validate these capabilities under operational conditions.