Expanding launch platform options, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with the Strategic Forces Command (SFC), successfully carried out the launch of the Intermediate Range Agni-Prime missile from a rail-based mobile launcher system under a full operational scenario.
The Ministry of Defence said the next-generation missile test, conducted on September 24, 2025, is designed to cover a range of up to 2,000 km and is equipped with several advanced features.
This was the first-ever launch from a specially designed rail-based mobile launcher, which can move freely across the rail network without pre-conditions. The launcher provides cross-country mobility and has the ability to launch within a short reaction time with reduced visibility. It is self-sustained and equipped with independent launch capability, state-of-the-art communication systems and protective mechanisms.
The missile trajectory was tracked by multiple ground stations, and the test was described as a textbook launch that achieved all mission objectives. Officials said the successful trial will pave the way for future induction of rail-based launch systems into service. The event was witnessed by senior DRDO scientists and officers from the SFC.
The road-mobile version of the Agni-Prime has already been inducted into service after a series of successful trials.
The Agni series of missiles currently includes Agni-1 to Agni-5. Among them, Agni-5, the most advanced variant with a range of over 5,000 km, was first tested in 2012. India’s missile arsenal also includes Agni-1 with a 700 km range, Agni-2 with a 2,000 km range, and Agni-3 and Agni-4 with ranges between 2,500 km and 3,500 km.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the DRDO, SFC and the Armed Forces, saying the successful test placed India among a select group of nations that have developed canisterised launch systems from rail platforms.
Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO also complimented the participating teams for the achievement.