List of India’s different types of missiles; check their range and key facts
India has not only developed modern and advanced missiles for its security and deterrence, but it is also supplying them to other nations that have shown interest in the weapons developed by the country. These missiles showcase India’s self-reliance and strategic capabilities.
India has different sets of missiles like ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and surface-to-air missiles and they play an important role in the nation’s security. These missiles are developed by the Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
Taking the mission forward, India, of late, successfully tested the K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) from INS Arighaat. The K-4 SLBM has a range of 3500 km and it can be launched beneath the water and it is difficult to detect it.
The nation’s nuclear missile program stresses credible deterrence while adhering to a no-first-use policy.
India has seven types of missiles which are-Surface-to-Air Missiles (SAM),Air-to-air missiles (AAM), Surface-to-surface missiles, Ballistic missile defence (BMD) / interceptor missiles, Cruise missiles, Submarine-launched ballistic missiles and Anti-tank missiles.
Here are the details of important missiles-
Surface-to-Air Missiles (SAM)-
This missile has been designed to detect, track and intercept aerial threats like missiles and enemy aircrafts. These systems play an important role in safety against airborne attacks.
Surface-to-Surface Missiles
These missiles are designed to strike with precision on targets located on territory or at sea from the ground. The missiles are used in battlegrounds for tactical purposes.
Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) / Interceptor Missiles
These missiles are capable of intercepting and detecting ballistic missiles before they hit the target. These missiles are considered as a defensive layer against potential attacks.
Cruise Missiles
These missiles have the capability of low-flying over a long range distance to hit the target with precision. The missiles can hit the target on land or at sea. The missiles are equipped with jet engines and can be guided through GPS.
Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missiles
Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missiles (SLBMs) can be launched from submarines and it offers a stealthy and mobile platform for delivering nuclear or conventional payloads.
Anti-Tank Missiles
The Anti-Tank Missiles are designed to hit and destroy armoured vehicles like tanks and personnel carriers. These missiles are equipped with advanced guidance systems that increase the accuracy in a combat like situation.
Key facts about Indian missiles
Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP)- This programme was launched in 1980 with an aim to lay the foundation for India’s missile capabilities.
Diverse Missile Types: Indian has developed a different range of missiles like ballistic missiles (Agni and Prithvi series), cruise missiles (BrahMos and Nirbhay), and anti-tank missiles (Nag).
Nuclear Capability: Indian missiles like the Agni and Prithvi series are capable of carrying nuclear warheads.
BrahMos Missile: The BrahMos Missiles are supersonic missiles and they are known for its speed and precision.
Agni Series: The Agni V missiles are capable of delivering nuclear warheads and the ballistic missile ranges from 700 km to 5000 km.
