The first missile to be developed under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program was Prithvi. These missiles are a monument to the eminence of Dr. Kalam, who developed and operationalized them. Prithvi is a tactical surface to surface short-range ballistic missile (SRBM).
The Prithvi missile project had three variants designated for use by the Indian Army, the Indian Air Force, and the Indian Navy. Prithvi-I is a short-range ballistic missile of range 150 km. It is the first in the line of indigenous land and sea-based missiles that include Prithvi-II the ship-launched Dhanush, and the Prithvi Air Defence Interceptor. The Prithvi missile inducted into the Indian Army was later replaced with the Prahaar missile.
Prithvi II was developed as a single-stage liquid-fuelled missile having a maximum warhead mounting capability of 500 kg and with an extended range of 250km. It was designated primarily for use by the Air Force. It was test fired on 27 January 1996, but its developmental stages were completed only in 2004.
Prithvi III was test-launched from the updated and reinforced helicopter deck of a Sukanya-class patrol vessel, in 2000. Its first flight was only partially successful. But in 2004, its full operational testing was completed. Dhanush is a variant customized for the Indian Navy, which belongs to the family of Prithvi III missiles. It is certified for sea operations.
One can say without a doubt that Dr. Kalam’s vision helped India to achieve a prominent place in defence technology.
Picture Credit : Google