Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme: Difference between revisions

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{{Short description|Indian Ministry of Defence programme}}

'''IGMDP''' or Integrated Guided Missile Development Program was initiated by [[India]] for developing a range of Missiles, including Missiles of IR; [[Agni missile]] Ballistic Missile (Surface to Surface), SR; [[Prithvi missile]] Ballistic Missile (Surface to Surface), [[Akash missile]] (Surface to Air), [[Trishul missile]] (Surface to Air) and [[Nag Missile]] (Anti Tank). Most of these missiles are in various stages of development and deployment (Prithvi). [[Astra Missile]] is being developed for an Air to Air, Beyond Visual Range (BVR) role.

{{more citations needed|date= March 2016}}

The Current President OF India,[[A.P.J.Abdul Kalam]] is considered the person responsible for the success of IGMDP so much so that he is called "The Missile Man Of India".

{{Use British English|date=March 2013}}

==Missiles in Indian History==

{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2022}}

[[Image:Indian rocketry.gif|thumb|250px|right|Reproduction of a painting showing the use of rockets in 1780 at the Battle of Guntur by Indian troops against the British Army.]]

[[File:Agni-V missile during rehearsal of Republic Day Parade 2013.jpg|thumb|300px|Agni-V missile during rehearsal of Republic Day Parade 2013]]

The use of rockets and missiles in India date back as early as the 18th century, during the period of [[Tipu Sultan]]. During the fight against the British Troops, Tipu Sultan's Army, used a number of improvised weapons which included rockets to thwart the British invasion.

The '''Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme''' ('''IGMDP''') was an Indian [[Ministry of Defence (India)|Ministry of Defence]] programme for the [[research and development]] of the comprehensive range of [[missile]]s. The programme was managed by the [[Defence Research and Development Organisation]] (DRDO) and [[Ordnance Factories Board]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ofb.gov.in/units/index.php?unit=ofi&page=my_2&lang=en |title=Indian Ordnance Factories: Ordnance Factory Itarsi |publisher=Ofb.gov.in |access-date=2012-12-24}}</ref> in partnership with other [[Indian government]] political organisations.<ref name="brahmos-site-igmdp">{{cite web

|title = Integrated Guided Missile Development Program

|url = http://brahmos.com/content.php?id=10&sid=25

|website = brahmos.com

|access-date = 9 June 2012

|url-status = dead

|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120321081536/http://brahmos.com/content.php?id=10&sid=25

|archive-date = 21 March 2012

}}</ref> The project started in 1982–83 under the leadership of [[A. P. J. Abdul Kalam|Abdul Kalam]] who oversaw its ending in 2008 after these strategic missiles were successfully developed.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Siddiqui |first=Huma |date=2022-08-15 |title=From Agni to BrahMos: A look at India’s deadly missile arsenal |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/business/defence-instruments-of-skyfall-how-missiles-shaped-75-years-of-india-2629276/ |access-date=2025-01-21 |website=Financialexpress |language=en}}</ref>

On 8 January 2008, the DRDO formally announced the successful rated guided missile programme was completed with its design objectives achieved since most of the missiles in the programme had been developed and inducted by the [[Indian armed forces|Indian Armed Forces]].<ref name="hindu-igmdp-over">{{cite news

In twentieth century, the government of [[History of the Republic of India|independent India]], embarked on a number of subsequent plans to develop missiles which would strengthen the Indian defence structure. In 1958, the government constituted the Special Weapons Development Team which would later become the Defence Research and Development Laboratories (DRDL), to undertake the development of first-generation anti-tank missiles. In 1970s Indian government decided to manufacture the anti-tank missiles under license from France, At the same time DRDL was entrusted with two other projects, Project Valiant, which involved the development of a long-range ballistic missile, and, Project Devil, which was aimed at reverse engineering the Soviet SA-2 surface-to-air missile. Both projects were considered failures and Project Valiant was terminated in 1974 and Project Devil in 1980. <ref>[http://www.nti.org/e_research/profiles/India/Missile/1931.html| Chronology of Indian Missiles, 1947-1970] ''accessed'' [[18 October]] [[2006]].</ref>

| title = India scraps integrated guided missile programme

| newspaper = [[The Hindu]]

| ___location = Chennai, India

| date = 9 January 2008

| url = http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/000200801090301.htm

| access-date = 9 June 2012

| archive-date = 4 November 2012

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121104002633/http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/000200801090301.htm

| url-status = dead

}}</ref>

== History ==

However, by this time, DRDL developed the infrastructure and facilities to undertake the design and development of missiles. In 1983, under the leadership of [[Abdul Kalam|Dr. Abdul Kalam]], the Indian government revived the missile program as an Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP).

{{main|Guided Missiles of India#History}}

By the start of the 1980s, the [[Defence Research and Development Laboratory]] (DRDL) had developed competence and expertise in the fields of propulsion, navigation and manufacture of aerospace materials based on the [[Soviet Union|Soviet]] [[Soviet space program|rocketry technologies]]. Thus, India's political leadership, which included [[Prime Minister of India|Prime Minister]] [[Indira Gandhi]], [[Defence Minister of India|Defence Minister]] [[R. Venkataraman]] and [[V. S. Arunachalam|V.S. Arunachalam]], the Scientific Advisor to the Defence Minister, decided that all these technologies should be consolidated.

This led to the birth of the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme with [[Abdul Kalam|Dr. Abdul Kalam]], who had previously been the project director for the [[Satellite Launch Vehicle|SLV-3 programme]] at the [[ISRO|Indian Space Research Organisation]] (ISRO), was inducted as the DRDL Director in 1983 to conceive and lead it. While the scientists proposed the development of each missile consecutively, the Defence Minister R. Venkataraman asked them to reconsider and develop all the missiles simultaneously. Thus, four projects, to be pursued concurrently, were born under the IGMDP:

The main aim of the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program was to develop, a missile in five different categories simultanously, namely, a short-range surface-to-air missile (''codenamed'' '''Trishul'''), a medium-range surface-to-air missile (''codenamed'' '''Akash'''), a third-generation anti-tank guided missile (''codenamed'' '''Nag'''), a short-range surface-to-surface missile (''codenamed'' '''Prithvi'''), and a intermediate-range surface-to-surface missile (''codenamed'' '''Agni'''). <ref>[http://www.nti.org/e_research/profiles/India/Missile/1769_1975.html Indian Missile Facilities - DRDL History] ''accessed'' [[18 October]] [[2006]].</ref>

* Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam started multiple projects simultaneously to develop the following types of Indian Guided Missiles missiles.

*# Short Range Surface to Surface Missile (SSM) ‘Prithvi’

*# Long Range Surface to Surface Missile (SSM) ‘Agni’

*# Medium Range Surface to Air Missile (SAM) ‘Akash’

*# Short Range Surface to Air Missile (SAM) ‘Trishul’

*# Anti-tank Guided Missile (ATGM) ‘Nag’<ref>[https://www.itworkss.in/best-indian-guided-missiles-part-1/ Read More]</ref>

The [[Agni (missile)|Agni missile]] was initially conceived in the IGMDP as a technology demonstrator project in the form of a re-entry vehicle, and was later upgraded to a ballistic missile with different ranges.<ref name="brahmos-site-igmdp" /> As part of this program, the Interim Test Range at Balasore in Odisha was also developed for missile testing.<ref name="fl-missile-shield">{{cite news

There were a number of failures and successes, which led to an expansion of the program in 1990s, to develop Agni with higher range, a ballistic missile (''codenamed'' '''Sagarika'''), and a naval version of the Prithvi (''codenamed'' '''Surya''').

|last=T. S.

|first=Subramanian

|title=Missile shield

|newspaper=Frontline

|___location=India

|date=31 January 2009

|url=http://www.frontlineonnet.com/fl2603/stories/20090213260309700.htm

|access-date=31 May 2012

|url-status=dead

|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130207034302/http://www.frontlineonnet.com/fl2603/stories/20090213260309700.htm

|archive-date=7 February 2013

}}</ref>

=== Hurdles ===

In 1998, the Government of India, signed an agreement with Russia to design, develop, manufacture and market a Supersonic Anti-Ship Cruise Missile System (''codenamed'' '''BrahMos'''). <ref>[http://www.brahmos.com/aboutus.html BrahMos Website] ''accessed'' [[18 October]] [[2006]].</ref>

{{main|Guided Missiles of India#Diplomatic and Technological Hurdles}}

After India test-fired the first Prithvi missile in 1988, and the Agni missile in 1989, the [[Missile Technology Control Regime]] (then an informal grouping established in 1987 by Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States) decided to restrict access to any technology that would help India in its missile development program. To counter the [[MTCR]], the IGMDP team formed a consortium of [[DRDO]] laboratories, industries and academic institutions to build these sub-systems, components and materials. Though this slowed down the progress of the program, India successfully developed indigenously all the restricted components denied to it by the MTCR.<ref name="fl-missile-shield" />

===Regional influence===

==Agni Missile System==

{{Main|Pakistani missile research and development program|l1=Hatf Program}}

{{main|Agni missile system}}

[[Image:Agni-II_missile_(Republic_Day_Parade_2004).jpeg|thumb|220px|right|An [[Agni-II]] on a road-mobile launcher displayed at the Republic Day Parade 2004 <small>(Photo: Antônio Milena/ABr)</small>]]

The starting of India's missile program influenced Pakistan to scramble its resources to meet the challenge. Like India, Pakistan faced hurdles to operationalize its program since education on space sciences was never sought. It took Pakistan decades of expensive trial errors before their program became feasible for military deployment.

The '''Agni missile''' (from Sanskrit [[Agni|Agnī]] meaning "Fire", one of the 5 elements of nature) is an [[IRBM]] developed under the [[IGMDP]] by [[India]]. It was first tested at the Interim Test Range in Chandipur in 1989, and is capable of carrying a conventional payload of 1000 kg (2,200 lb) or a [[nuclear weapon|nuclear]] warhead. It consists of one (short range) or two [[multistage rocket|stages]] (intermediate range). It is rail and road mobile. It is powered by solid and/or liquid [[rocket fuel|propellant]]s.

== Prithvi ==

[[Agni-III]] is the third in the Agni series of [[missile]]s. The [[Agni I]] has a range of 700-800 km while the [[Agni-II]] as a range of 2,000&ndash;2,500 km. They are claimed to be a part of the "credible [[deterrence]]" against [[Pakistan]] and [[China]]. The [[Agni-II]] can only reach some parts of western China. Right now most of eastern China remains out of range from the Indian missiles.

{{main|Prithvi missile}}

The '''Prithvi missile''' (from [[Sanskrit language|Sanskrit]] पृथ्वी ''[[prithvi|{{IAST|pṛthvī}}]]'' "Earth") is a family of tactical [[Surface-to-surface missile|surface-to-surface]] short-range [[ballistic missile]]s (SRBM) and is India's first indigenously developed ballistic missile. Development of the Prithvi began in 1983, and it was first test-fired on 25 February 1988 from Sriharikota, SHAR Centre, Pottisreeramulu Nellore district, Andhra Pradesh. It has a range of up to 150 to 300&nbsp;km. The land variant is called '''Prithvi''' while the naval operational variant of Prithvi I and Prithvi III class missiles are code named '''Dhanush''' (meaning "Bow"). Both variants are used for surface targets.

[[Agni-III]] was tested on [[July 9]], [[2006]] from Wheeler island off the coast of the eastern state of [[Orissa]].[http://today.reuters.com/news/newsArticle.aspx?type=topNews&storyID=2006-07-09T072836Z_01_DEL131780_RTRUKOC_0_US-ARMS-INDIA-MISSILE.xml&archived=False] After the launch, it was reported that the second stage of the rocket had failed to separate and the missile had fallen well short of its target.[http://hindustantimes.com/news/181_1739753,0008.htm] It can hit strategic targets deep inside [[China]], including [[Shanghai]] and [[Beijing]] with a strike range of more than 3,000 km. It falls short of the range of [[ICBM]]s (intercontinental ballistic missiles) which have ranges over 5,000 km.

The Prithvi is said to have its propulsion technology derived from the Soviet [[SA-2]] surface-to-air missile.<ref>{{cite web|author=John Pike |url=http://www.globalsecurity.org/wmd/world/india/prithvi.htm |title=Prithvi – India Missile Special Weapons Delivery Systems |publisher=GlobalSecurity.org |access-date=2010-10-08}}</ref> Variants make use of either liquid or both liquid and solid fuels. Developed as a battlefield missile, it could carry a nuclear warhead in its role as a tactical [[nuclear weapon]].

The Indian Missile Program has been a largely indigenous one with almost all of the equipment developed by Indian scientists. However it is delayed by some years as more variants of Agni are expected. Some parts of the missile have benefited from [[Indian space program|India's Space Program]].

{| class="wikitable"

|-

! Missile !! Type !! Warhead !! Payload (kg) !! Range (km) !! Dimension (m) !! Fuel/stages !! Weight (kg) !! In service !! CEP (m)

|-

| Prithvi-I || Tactical || Nuclear, HE, submunitions, FAE, chemical || 1,000 || 150 || 8.55X1.1 || Single stage liquid || 4,400 || 1988 || 30–50

|-

| Prithvi-II || Tactical || Nuclear, HE, submunitions, FAE, chemical || 350–750 || 350 || 8.55X1.1 || Single stage liquid || 4,600 || 1996 || 10–15

|-

| Prithvi-III || Tactical || Nuclear, HE, submunitions, FAE, chemical || 500–1,000 || 350–600 || 8.55X1 || Single stage solid || 5,600 || 2004 || 10–15

|}

The initial project framework of the IGMDP envisioned the Prithvi missile as a short-range ballistic missile with variants for the Indian Army, Indian Air Force and the Indian Navy.<ref>[http://cns.miis.edu/research/india/indiach2.htm Centre for Non Proliferation Studies Archive] {{webarchive|url=http://webarchive.loc.gov/all/20011202044243/http://cns.miis.edu/research/india/indiach2.htm |date=2 December 2001 }} ''accessed'' 18 October 2006.</ref> Over the years the ''Prithvi'' missile specifications have undergone a number of changes. The Prithvi I class of missiles were inducted into the Indian Army in 1994, and it is reported that Prithvi I missiles are being withdrawn from service, being replaced with Prahar missiles.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://defense-update.com/20130701_prahar_to_replace_privthi.html |title=After 17 years in service, the Prithvi I missile will give way to smaller and better Prahar |date=July 2013 |publisher=defense-update.com |access-date=2013-07-01}}</ref> Prithvi II missiles were inducted in 1996. ''Prithvi III'' class has a longer-range of 350&nbsp;km, and was successfully test fired in 2004.<ref name=janes-dhanush>{{cite web|url=http://www.janes.com/articles/Janes-Naval-Weapon-Systems/Dhanush-Sagarika-Project-K-15-India.html |title=Dhanush/Sagarika (Project K-15) (India) – Jane's Naval Weapon Systems |publisher=Janes.com |access-date=2012-12-24}}</ref>

==Prithvi Missile System==

[[Image:Prithvi.jpg|frame|The Prithvi Missile (Dhanush) mounted on its launchpad]]

The '''Prithvi missile''' (from [[Sanskrit language|Sanskrit]] [[prithvi|{{IAST|pṛthvī}}]] "Earth") is the tactical [[Surface-to-surface missile|surface-to-surface]] short-range [[ballistic missile]] (SRBM) developed by [[India]] under the [[Integrated Guided Missile Development Program]]. The Prithvi was India's first indigenously developed ballistic missile. Development of the Prithvi began in 1983, and it was first test-fired on February 25, 1988. It has a range of up to 150 to 300 km. The land variant is called '''Prithvi''' while the naval operational variant of Prithvi I and Prithvi II class missiles are ''codenamed'' '''Dhanush''' (''meaning'' '''Bow'''). Both variants are used for surface targets.

== Agni re-entry technology ==

The Prithvi is said to have its propulsion technology derived from the Soviet [[SA-2|SA-2]] surface-to-air missile. Variants make use of either liquid or both liquid and solid fuels. Developed as a battlefield missile, it could carry a nuclear warhead in its role as a tactical [[nuclear weapon]].

A technology demonstrator for re-entry technology called Agni was added to IGMDP as Prithvi was unable to be converted to a longer ranged missile. The first flight of Agni with re-entry technology took place in 1989.<ref name="frontline-13feb09">{{cite magazine|author=T. S. Subramanian|date=31 January – 13 February 2009|title=Missile shield|url=http://www.frontline.in/static/html/fl2603/stories/20090213260309700.htm|magazine=Frontline|volume=26|issue=3|publisher=Kasturi|issn=0970-1710}}</ref> The re-entry system used resins and carbon fibres in its construction and was able to withstand a temperature of up to 3000&nbsp;°C.<ref name="frontline-13feb09"/><ref>{{cite magazine|author=T. S. Subramanian|date=21 August 2015|title=Technologist to the core|url=http://www.frontline.in/other/obituary/technologist-to-the-core/article7499055.ece|magazine=Frontline|publisher=Kasturi|issn=0970-1710}}</ref> The technologies developed in this project were eventually used in the [[Agni (missile)|Agni series]] of missiles.<ref>{{cite web|author1=PIB Delhi|title=Missile Development Programme|url=http://pib.nic.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=85986|date=13 August 2012}}</ref>

== Trishul ==

===Variants of Prithvi===

{{main|Trishul (missile)}}

'''Trishul''' ([[Sanskrit]]: त्रिशूल, meaning ''[[trident]]'') is the name of a short range [[surface-to-air missile]] developed by India as a part of the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program. It has a range of 12&nbsp;km and is fitted with a 5.5&nbsp;kg [[warhead]]. Designed to be used against low-level (sea skimming) targets at short range, the system has been developed to defend [[naval]] vessels against missiles and also as a short-range surface-to-air missile on land. According to reports, the range of the missile is 12&nbsp;km and is fitted with a 15&nbsp;kg warhead. The weight of the missile is 130&nbsp;kg. The length of the missile is 3.5 m.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.india-defence.com/reports-3210 |title=Trishul Surface To Air Missile Not A Failure Says Government |publisher=India-defence.com |date=17 May 2007 |access-date=2010-08-31}}</ref> India officially shut down the project on 27 February 2008.<ref name=trishul_shut/> In 2003, Defence Minister [[George Fernandes]] had indicated that the Trishul missile had been de-linked from user service and would be continued as a technology demonstrator.

== Akash ==

The Prithvi missile project encompassed developing three variants for use by the Indian Army, Indian Air Force and the Indian Navy. The initial project framework of the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program outlines the variants in the following manner. <ref>[http://cns.miis.edu/research/india/indiach2.htm Centre for Non Proliferation Studies Archive] ''accessed'' [[18 October]] [[2006]].</ref>

{{main|Akash missile}}

*'''Prithvi I''' - Army Version (150km range with a payload of 1,000kg)

[[File:Akash SAM.jpg|thumb|200px|An Akash missile being test fired from the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, Orissa. The launch platform is a BMP-2 vehicle.]]

*'''Prithvi II''' - Air Force Version (250km range with a payload of 500kg)

*'''Prithvi III''' - Naval Version (350km range with a payload of 500kg)

Over the years these specifications underwent a number of changes. While the ''codename'' '''Prithvi''' stands for any missile inducted by India into its armed forces in this category, the later developmental versions are codenamed as '''Prithvi II''' and '''Prithvi III'''. The induction of Prithvi I class of missiles happened in 1994 and the armed forces are in the process of inducting the extended range, Prithvi II class of missiles [[as of 2006]].

'''Akash''' (Sanskrit: आकाश meaning ''Sky'') is a medium-range surface-to-air missile developed as part of India's Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme to achieve self-sufficiency in the area of surface-to-air missiles. It is the most expensive missile project ever undertaken by the Union government in the 20th century. Development costs skyrocketed to almost {{USD}}120 million, which is far more than other similar systems.<ref name=trishul_shut>[http://www.rediff.com/news/2008/feb/27trishul.htm "India Shuts Down Trishul Missile Project" ] ''[[Rediff.com]]'' 27 February 2008</ref>

===Prithvi I===

'''Prithvi I''' class was a single stage liquid-fuelled surface-to-surface missile having a maximum warhead mounting capability of 1000 kg, with a range of 150 km. It has an accuracy of 10 - 50 metres and can be launched from [[Transporter erector launcher]]s. This class of Prithvi missile was inducted into the [[Indian Army]] in 1994.

Akash is a medium-range surface-to-air missile with an intercept range of 30&nbsp;km. It has a launch weight of 720&nbsp;kg, a diameter of 35&nbsp;cm and a length of 5.8 metres. Akash flies at [[supersonic]] speed, reaching around [[Mach number|Mach]] 2.5. It can reach an altitude of 18&nbsp;km. A digital proximity fuse is coupled with a 55&nbsp;kg pre-fragmented warhead, while the safety arming and detonation mechanism enables a controlled detonation sequence. A self-destruct device is also integrated. It is propelled by a solid fuelled booster stage. The missile has a terminal guidance system capable of working through [[electronic countermeasures]]. The entire Akash SAM system allows for attacking multiple targets (up to 4 per battery). The Akash missile's use of [[ramjet]] propulsion system allows it to maintain its speed without deceleration, unlike the [[MIM-104 Patriot|Patriot missiles]].<ref>T.S. Subramanian (11 December 2005) [https://web.archive.org/web/20051212070048/http://www.hindu.com/2005/12/11/stories/2005121102871000.htm "Akash missile achieves a milestone"] ''[[The Hindu]]'.' Retrieved 18 October 2006.</ref> The missile is supported by a multi-target and multi-function [[phased array]] fire control [[radar]] called the '[[Rajendra Radar|Rajendra]]' with a range of about 80&nbsp;km in search, and 60&nbsp;km in terms of engagement.<ref>[http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/india/akash.htm Global Security.Org] article ''accessed'' 18 October 2006.</ref>

===Prithvi II===

'''Prithvi II''' class is also a single stage liquid-fuelled missile having a maximum warhead mounting capability of 1000kg, but with an extended range of 250 kilometres (155 statute miles). It was developed with the [[Indian Air Force]] being the primary user. It was first test-fired on January 27, 1996 and the development stages were completed in 2004. The Prithvi II class of missiles are in the process of induction by the armed forces.

The missile is completely guided by the radar, without any active guidance of its own. This allows it greater capability against jamming as the aircraft self-protection jammer would have to work against the high-power Rajendra, and the aircraft being attacked is not alerted by any terminal seeker on the Akash itself.

===Prithvi III===

'''Prithvi III''' class (''codenamed'' '''Sagarika''' ''meaning'' '''Oceanic''') <ref>[http://www.tribuneindia.com/1998/98sep07/head6.htm Article in The Tribune, dated [[7 September]] [[1998]], ''accessed'' [[18 October]] [[2006]].</ref> is a two-stage surface-to-surface missile in the developmental stages. The first stage is solid fuelled with a 16 [[kilogram-force|metric ton force]] (157 [[kilonewton|kN]]) thrust motor. The second stage is liquid fuelled. The missile can carry a 1000 kg warhead to a distance of 350 km and a 500 kg warhead to a distance of 600 kilometres and a 250 kilogram warhead upto a distance of 750 kilometres. The design is developed while keeping the navy in mind.

Design of the missile is similar to that of the [[SA-6]], with four long tube ramjet inlet ducts mounted mid-body between wings. For pitch/yaw control four clipped triangular moving wings are mounted on mid-body. For roll control four inline clipped delta fins with ailerons are mounted before the tail. However, internal schema shows a completely modernised layout, including an onboard computer with special optimised trajectories, and an all-digital proximity fuse.

'''Sagarika''' will be a nuclear-capable, cruise missile, capable of being mounted in ships or submarines. Considering the upward capability developments, Prithvi class of missiles could be reclassified from short-range ballistic missile to a medium range ballistic missile. The current codename of the operational variant '''Dhanush''' could pave way for the new codename '''Sagarika''' as Sagarika becomes operational. '''Sagarika''' will be inducted into the [[Advanced Technology Vessel]] being developed for Indian Navy. <ref>[http://www.thebulletin.org/article_nn.php?art_ofn=so05norris The Bulletin of Atomic Scientists] ''dated'' [[September]]/[[October]] [[2005]], ''accessed'' [[18 October]] [[2006]].</ref>

The Akash system meant for the [[Indian Army]] uses the [[T-72]] tank chassis for its launcher and radar vehicles. The Rajendra derivative for the Army is called the Battery Level Radar-III. The Air Force version uses an [[Ashok Leyland]] truck platform to tow the missile launcher, while the Radar is on a [[BMP-2]] chassis and is called the Battery Level Radar-II. In either case, the launchers carry three ready-to-fire Akash missiles each. The launchers are automated, autonomous and networked to a command post and the guidance radar. They are slewable in azimuth and elevation. The Akash system can be deployed by rail, road or air.

There were a number of shortcoming in the initial version of Prithvi missiles namely, High circular error probability (CEP) of around 500 meters and volatility of the liquid-fuelled propulsion system requiring fuelling only just before launching. These shortcomings are being overcome in the latest developmental versions by incorporating of global positioning system (GPS) into the missiles to reduce the CEP to as low as 75 meters and use of solid fuel in the propulsion system.

The first test flight of Akash missile was conducted in 1990, with development flights up to March 1997.

==Akash Missile System==

[[image:Akash3.jpg|thumb|250px|Right|Akash Missile]]

The [[Indian Air Force]] (IAF) has initiated the process to induct the [[Akash missile|Akash]] [[surface-to-air missile]]s developed as a part of the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme. The Multiple target handling capability of Akash weapon system was demonstrated by live firing in a C4I environment during the trials. Two Akash missiles intercepted two fast moving targets in simultaneous engagement mode in 2005 itself. The Akash System's 3-D central acquisition radar (3-D car) group mode performance was then fully established.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://frontierindia.net/iaf-initiates-process-for-inducting-akash-and-trishul-sams/ |title=IAF initiates process for inducting Akash and Trishul SAM's |publisher=Frontierindia.net |date=3 May 2007 |access-date=2010-08-31 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100325051818/http://frontierindia.net/iaf-initiates-process-for-inducting-akash-and-trishul-sams/ |archive-date=25 March 2010 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.india-defence.com/reports-3629 |title=Air Force Impressed With Akash Surface To Air Missiles Performance |publisher=India-defence.com |access-date=2010-08-31}}</ref>

'''Akash''' (''meaning'' '''Sky''') is a medium range surface-to-air missile developed as part of [[India]]'s Integrated Guided Missile Development Program to achieve self-sufficiency in the area of surface-to-air missiles.

In December 2007, the IAF completed user trials for the Akash missile system. The trials, which were spread over ten days, were successful, and the missile hit its target on all five occasions. Before the ten-day trial at Chandipur, the Akash system's ECCM Evaluation tests were carried out at Gwalior Air force base while mobility trials for the system vehicles were carried out at Pokhran. The IAF had evolved the user Trial Directive to verify the Akash's consistency in engaging targets. The following trials were conducted: Against low-flying near-range target, long-range high-altitude target, crossing and approaching target and ripple firing of two missiles from the same launcher against a low-altitude receding target.<ref>[http://www.drdo.com/bnews/jan08/akash_test.htm "DRDO report on Akash Air Defence Weapon System"]''[[DRDO]]''</ref>

Akash is a medium-range surface-to-air missile. It has a launch weight of 720 kg, a diameter of 35 cm and a length of 5.8 metres. It has a range of 25 km. Akash flies at supersonic speed, reaching a maximum of 2.5 Mach. It can reach an altitude of 18 km. Its warhead weighs 55 kg. It is propelled by a solid fuelled booster stage. The missile has a terminal guidance system capable of working through [[electronic countermeasures]]. Features include capability of attacking multiple targets, and use of [[ramjet]] propulsion system that enables maintanence of required speeds without deceleration, unlike the Patriot missiles. <ref>[http://www.hindu.com/2005/12/11/stories/2005121102871000.htm The Hindu] article ''dated'' [[11 December]] [[2005]], ''accessed'' [[18 October]] [[2006]].</ref> The missile is supported by a multi-target and multi-function [[phased array]] fire control [[radar]] called '[[Rajendra Radar|Rajendra]]' with a range of about 60 km. <ref>[http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/india/akash.htm Global Security.Org] article ''accessed'' [[18 October]] [[2006]].</ref>

Following this, the IAF declared that it would initiate the induction of 2 squadrons strength (each squadron with 2 batteries) of this missile system, to begin with. Once deliveries are complete, further orders would be placed to replace retiring SA-3 GOA (Pechora) SAM systems.<ref name="Sify News">{{cite web |url=http://sify.com/news/fullstory.php?id=14580887 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071231181012/http://sify.com/news/fullstory.php?id=14580887 |url-status=dead |archive-date=31 December 2007 |title=IAF to induct indigenous Akash missile |access-date=27 December 2007 |date=26 December 2007<!--, 00:17&nbsp;am-->|website=[[Sify News]]}}</ref><ref>Ajai Shukla (23 January 2008)[http://www.business-standard.com/common/news_article.php?leftnm=lmnu2&subLeft=1&autono=311447&tab=r "Missile mission meets target" ] ''[[Business Standard]]''</ref> In February 2010, the Indian Air Force ordered six more squadrons of the Akash system, taking orders to eight of the type. The Indian Army is also expected to order the Akash system.

== Nag ==

Design of the missile is much similar to [[SA-6]] with four long tube ramjet inlet ducts mounted mid-body between wings. For pitch/yaw control four clipped triangular moving wings are mouted on mid-body. For roll control four inline clipped delta fins with ailerons are mounted before the tail.

{{main|Nag Missile}}

[[File:Nag with NAMICA Defexpo-2008.JPG|thumb|[[Nag Missile]]]]

While the missile meant for the Army can be launched from tracked vehicles such as battle tanks, the Air Force version can take off from wheeled vehicles. Three ready-to-fire Akash missiles can be carried in a battle tank. The missiles can take off in different directions and destroy multiple targets. Akash can be deployed by rail, road or air. The first test flight of Akash missile was conducted in 1990, with development flights up to March 1997. Operational tests and evaluations were completed in 2006 and the missile is expected to inducted by the end of [[2006]]. <ref>[http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/01/30/stories/2006013001391400.htm Business Line] article ''dated'' [[30 January]] [[2006]], ''accessed'' [[18 October]] [[2006]].</ref>

'''Nag''' ([[Sanskrit language|Sanskrit]]: नाग meaning ''cobra'') is India's third generation "[[fire-and-forget]]" [[Anti-tank guided missile|anti-tank missile]]. It is an all weather, [[top attack]] missile with a range of 0.5 to 4&nbsp;km.

The missile uses an 8&nbsp;kg [[high-explosive anti-tank]] (HEAT) [[tandem warhead]] capable of defeating modern armour including [[Explosive reactive armour#Explosive reactive armour|explosive reactive armour]] (ERA) and [[composite armour]]. Nag uses [[infrared homing|imaging infra-red (IIR)]] guidance with day and night capability. Mode of launch for the IIR seeker is LOBL (lock-on before launch). Nag can be mounted on an infantry vehicle; a helicopter launched version will also be available with integration work being carried out with the [[HAL Dhruv]].

==Trishul Missile System==

'''Trishul''' (Sanskrit for [[trident]]) is the name of a short range [[surface-to-air missile]] developed by [[India]] as a part of the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program. It has a range of 9 km and is fitted with a 5.5 kg [[warhead]]. Designed to be used against low-level (sea skimming) targets at short range, the system has been developed to defend [[naval]] vessels against missiles and also as a short range surface to air missile on land. Guidance consists of three different guiding beams, with the guidance handed over progressively to a narrower beam as the missile approaches the target.

Separate versions for the Army and the Air Force are being developed. For the Army, the missiles will be carried by specialist carrier vehicles (NAMICA-Nag Missile Carrier) equipped with a [[thermographic camera]] for target acquisition. NAMICA is a modified [[BMP-2]] [[infantry fighting vehicle]] licence produced as "Sarath" in India. The carriers are capable of carrying four ready-to-fire missiles in the observation/launch platform which can be elevated with more missiles available for reload within the carrier. For the Air Force, a nose-mounted thermal imaging system has been developed for guiding the missile's trajectory "Helina". The missile has a completely [[fiberglass]] structure and weighs around 42&nbsp;kg.

According to reports, the range of the missile is 12 km and is fitted with a 15 kg warhead. The weight of the missile is 130 kg. The length of the missile is 3.1 m.

Nag was test fired for the 45th time on 19 March 2005 from the Test Range at [[Ahmednagar]] ([[Maharashtra]]), signalling the completion of the developmental phase. It will now enter the production phase, subject to user trials and acceptance by the [[Indian Army]].

The [[Government of India|Indian Government]] has decided to suspend the Trishul research effort by December 2006.<ref name="trishul">{{cite web

| title = Government to close down Trishul anti-missile programme

| publisher = [[NDTV]]

| url = http://www.ndtv.com/morenews/showmorestory.asp?category=National&id=94915

| accessdate = 2006-10-17 }}

</ref> The decision was taken primarily because of the continuing failure of the guidance systems despite years of work, and the agreement with [[Israel]] to collaborate on the development of the [[Barak SAM|Barak]] anti-missile system.

Further versions of the missile may make use of an all-weather [[Extremely high frequency|milli-metre wave]] (MMW) seeker as an additional option. This seeker has reportedly been developed and efforts are on to integrate it into the missile.

==Nag Missile System==

'''Nag''' ([[Sanskrit]] for "cobra") is India's third generation "fire and forget" anti-tank missile. It is an all weather, [[top attack]] missile with a range of 4 to 6 km.

The missile uses an 8 kg tandem HEAT warhead capable of defeating modern armour including ERA (Explosive Reactive Armour) and composite armour. Nag uses Imaging Infra-Red (IIR) guidance with day and night capability. Mode of launch for the IIR seeker is LOBL (Lock On Before Launch). Nag can be mounted on an infantry vehicle; a helicopter launched version will also be available with integration work being carried out with the [[HAL Dhruv]].

Separate versions for the Army and the Air Force are being developed. For the Army, the missiles will be carried by specialist carrier vehicles (NAMICA) equipped with a thermal imager for target acquisition. NAMICA is a modified [[BMP-2]] ICV licence produced as "Sarath" in India. The carriers are capable of carrying four ready-to-fire missiles in the elevatable observation/launch platform with more missiles available for reload within the carrier. For the Air Force, a nose-mounted thermal imaging system has been developed for guiding the missile's trajectory. The missile has a complete fiberglass structure and weighs around 42 kg.

Nag was successfully test fired for the 45th time on [[March 19]], [[2005]] from the Test Range at [[Ahmednagar]] ([[Maharastra]]), signalling the completion of the developmental phase. It will now enter production phase, subject to user trials and acceptance by the [[Indian Army]].

Further versions of the missile may make use of an all weather MMW seeker as an additional option.

===Specifications===

'''Total length''': 1.90 m (6.23 ft)<br>

'''Diameter''': 190 mm (7.5 in)<br>

'''Wingspan''': - <br>

'''Weight''': 42 kg (93 lb)<br>

'''Warhead Weight''': 8 kg (17.6 lb)<br>

'''Propellant''': Tandem Propulsion solid (Nitramine based smokeless extruded double band sustainer propellant)<br>

'''Maximum effective range''': 4 km (Guidance mode: IIR (Imaging infra-red))<br>

'''Attack Mode''': Lock-on-before-Launch - Top attack<br>

'''Seeker''': IIR cadmium zinc telluride<br>

'''Single-shot hit probability''': 0.77 <br>

'''CEP''': 0.9 m R.S<br>

==Astra Missile System==

The '''Astra missile''' (from the [[Sanskrit]] Astrā, meaning "Weapon") is an air-to-air (AA), beyond visual range (BVR) missile under development by [[India]] under its Integrated Guided Missile Development Program. This is the first indigenous air-to-air missile developed by India. The range of this missile is 80 km in head-on chase and 15 km in tail chase. This missile was successfully tested without control and [[guidance systems]] on [[May 9]] to [[May 12]], [[2003]].

India's [[Defence Research and Development Organisation]] (DRDO) is developing this advanced beyond visual range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM) for its [[Mirage 2000]], [[MiG-29]], [[BAE Sea Harrier|Sea Harrier]], [[Su-30]], and the [[Light Combat Aircraft]] [LCA]. Astra looks like an elongated [[Matra 530]]. It uses an indigenously developed solid fuel propellant, though DRDO is believed to be looking at rocket/ramjet propulsion similar to that used in its AKASH SAM project. The missile's onboard radio-frequency seeker has been designed in India. It will have an active homing range of 15 km. The missile has a pre-fragmented warhead & is fitted with a [[proximity fuze]]. A radar fuze already exists for the Astra, but the DRDO is currently working on a new laser fuze.

===Specifications===

:'''First test''': [[May 9]], [[2003]]

:'''Total length''': 3570 mm (11.7 ft)

:'''Diameter''': 7 in (178 mm )

:'''Wingspan''': 10 in (254 mm)

:'''Weight''': 154 kg (339 lb)

::< 250 kg (550 lb) including launcher

:'''Warhead''' :15 kg (33 lb) HE fragmentation directional warhead

:'''Fuze''': Radar [[proximity fuze]]

:'''Propulsion''': solid fuel

:'''Maximum speed''': Mach 4 +

:'''Maximum effective range''': 80 km head on, 15 km tail chase, over 100 km (eventually)

:'''Maximum altitude''': 20 km (66,000 ft)

:'''Minimum altitude''': sea level

:'''Missile ''g'' load''': 40 ''g'' (400 m/s²)

:'''Target ''g'' load''': 9 ''g'' (90 m/s²)

:'''Guidance mode''': Inertial + mid-course update & terminal active radar (15 km)

:'''Launch aircraft speed''': Mach 0.6 to 2.2

Data is based on handouts and discussion at DRDO stall AERO INDIA 2003 & 05.

==Surya Missile System==

'''Surya''' (meaning The Sun in [[Sanskrit]] and Many Indian Languages) is the codename for the first [[Intercontinental Ballistic Missile]] that [[India]] is reported to be developing. The [[DRDO]] is believed to have begun the project in 1994, in concert with other Indian defence agencies and the Indian space programme. Officials of the Indian government have repeatedly denied the existence of the project.

According to news reports, the Surya-1 is an intercontinental-range, surface-based, solid and liquid propellant ballistic missile. It is based upon the [[PSLV]] and [[GSLV]] space launch vehicles.

Surya is the most ambitious project in India's [[IGMDP|Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme]]. The [[Prithvi missile|Prithvi]] and [[Agni missile|Agni]] have completed development, as have the [[Trishul missile|Trishul]], the [[Akash missile|Akash]] and the [[Nag Missile|Nag]]. India is also reported to be developing the Sagarika, a submarine-launched cruise missile with a range of about 300 km.

The Surya-1 and -2 will be classified as strategic weapons, extending the Indian nuclear deterrent force to targets deeper within China. India can only hit a limited number of targets within China, even upon the completion of the Agni-3 missile. The development of a true ICBM would make almost any strategic target within China vulnerable and decrease India’s relative weakness. This would develop a credible deterrent for India against any Chinese aggression.

The Surya-1 will have an expected range of 5000 km (3100 miles) to 8,000 km (4971 miles). It reportedly has a length of 40 m and a launch weight of 80,000 kg. As the missile has yet to be developed, the payload and warhead are as yet unknown. It is believed to be a three-stage design, with the first two stages using solid propellants and the third-stage using liquid. The first two stages are believed to be derived from the PSLV's solid fuel rockets. The liquid propellant stage might be derived either from the Vikas rocket engine stages developed for the PSLV through technology supplied by France, or from the Russian supplied cryogenic stage of the GSLV.

The Surya-2 is a longer-ranged variant of the Surya-1. It has a reported range of 12000 (7500 miles) to 20000 km (12500 miles).

The first test flight is expected in 2008, and it is expected to be operationally ready by 2015.

==Reported Specifications==

*Class: ICBM

*Basing: Surface based

*Length: 40.00 m

*Diameter: 2.8 m

*Launch Weight: 80,000 kg

*Propulsion: First/second stage solid, third liquid

*Warhead Capabilities: 2-3 nuclear warheads of 15-20 kilotons each

*Status: Development / Developed to be tested

*In Service: 2015

*Range: 9,000 - 12,000 km/~20,000km(Surya-II)

==Notes==

<div class="references-small"><references/></div>

==See also==

{{Portal|India|Rocketry}}

*[[Rajendra Radar]]

* [[List of Indian military missiles]]

*[[SA-6#|SA-6 Gainful]]

* [[Agni missileRajendra systemRadar]]

* [[BrahMosSA-6|BrahmosSA-6 Gainful]]

* [[Agni missile system]]

*[[Sagarika]]

* [[List of missiles]]

* [[Dongfeng (missile)|Dongfeng]]

== External links ==

* [http://missilethreat.csis.org/india/ CSIS Missile Threat – India]

* [http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/MISSILES/Akash.html Bharat Rakshak]

* [https://web.archive.org/web/20061105011002/http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/MISSILES/TrishulAkash.html Bharat Rakshak's page onof TrishulAkash]

* [https://web.archive.org/web/20061105010952/http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/MISSILES/Trishul.html Bharat Rakshak's page on Trishul]

* [http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/001200504261545.htm Trishul Test Fired]

* [https://web.archive.org/web/20061105010959/http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/MISSILES/Nag.html Nag Missile]

== References ==

{{Reflist}}

{{Indian missiles}}

{{Defence Research and Development Organisation}}

{{Military of India}}

{{[[Category:Missile types}}defense]]

[[Category:Missile defence]]

[[Category:Surface-to-air missiles]]

[[Category:Indian missiles]]

[[Category:Nuclear technology in India]]

[[Category:Modern weapons]]

[[Category:Short-range ballistic missiles]]

[[Category:Defence Research and Development Organisation]]

[[Category:Surface-to-air missiles of India]]

[[Category:Nuclear weapons programme of India]]

[[Category:Nuclear weapons of India]]

[[Category:Military projects]]

[[Category:Secret military programs]]

[[Category:1983 establishments in India]]