Central Idea

The Defense Ministry has granted approval for the acquisition of a regiment of ‘Pralay’ ballistic missiles, earmarked for deployment along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and the Line of Control (LoC).

It is the first time that a ballistic missile will be inducted into the services for conventional operations.

Pralay Missile: Key Features

Strike Range	150 to 500 kilometers
Payload Capacity	350 kg to 700 kg conventional warhead
Warhead Variability	High explosive preformed fragmentation warheads, penetration-cum-blast (PCB) warheads, runaway denial penetration submunitions (RDPS)
Classification	Quasi-ballistic surface-to-surface missile
Maneuverability	Mid-flight trajectory alteration capability
Propulsion	Solid propellant rocket motor with advanced guidance systems
Global Comparisons	Comparable to China’s Dong Feng 12 and Russia’s Iskander missile
Development History	Development was initiated around 2015, with significant progress during the tenure of General Bipin Rawat as Chief of Army Staff

Longest Range: ‘Pralay’ will emerge as the longest-range surface-to-surface missile within the Army’s inventory.
Strategic Role: ‘Pralay,’ in conjunction with the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, will play a central role in India’s planned Rocket Force, augmenting the nation’s strategic posture.
Imperative: China and Pakistan have already deployed ballistic missiles for tactical purposes, prompting India’s acquisition of ‘Pralay’ missiles.