Indian Ballistic Missile Defence Programme#Prithvi Defence Vehicle Mark 2

File:AAD Integration 2.JPG. Note the Missile Jet Vanes at the end of the rocket motor. The system provides for very quick pitch over and roll control during launch.]]

Since the early 90s, India has faced the threat of ballistic missile attacks from Pakistan against which it has fought multiple wars in the past and also from China. With the heightening of tensions in the region, and in response to Pakistan's deployment of M-11 missiles bought from China, the Indian Government in August 1995 procured six batteries of S-300 Surface-to-air missiles to protect New Delhi and other cities.https://www.nonproliferation.org/wp-content/uploads/npr/koblen43.pdf In May 1998, India for the second time (since its first test in 1974) tested nuclear weapons (see Pokhran-II), followed by Pakistan (see Chagai-I) with its first-ever nuclear test. With Pakistan's testing of nuclear weapons and missile delivery systems, this threat intensified. India has also developed and tested missile delivery systems during Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP).{{citation needed|date=July 2012}}

In 1999, the Kargil War between India and Pakistan became the first direct conflict between two declared nuclear powers. As the war progressed, the first hint of the possible use of a nuclear weapon was on 31 May, when Pakistani foreign secretary Shamshad Ahmad made a statement warning that an escalation of the limited conflict could lead Pakistan to use "any weapon" in its arsenal.Quoted in News Desk, "Pakistan May Use Any Weapon," The News, 31 May 1999. This was immediately interpreted as an obvious threat of a nuclear retaliation by Pakistan in the event of an extended war. The leader of Pakistan's senate noted that "the purpose of developing weapons becomes meaningless if they are not used when they are needed."[http://www.nd.edu/~krocinst/ocpapers/op_18_2.pdf Pakistan's Nuclear Weapons Program] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081112015736/http://www.nd.edu/~krocinst/ocpapers/op_18_2.pdf |date=12 November 2008 }} Some experts believe that following nuclear tests in 1998, the Pakistani military was emboldened by its nuclear deterrent cover to markedly increase coercion against India.[http://www.carnegieendowment.org/publications/index.cfm?fa=view&id=17967 Options Available to the United States to Counter a Nuclear Iran By George Perkovich] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080112075840/https://www.carnegieendowment.org/publications/index.cfm?fa=view&id=17967 |date=12 January 2008 }} – Testimony by George Perkovich before the House Armed Services Committee, 1 February 2006

Development of an anti-ballistic missile system began in late 1999,[http://www.defensenews.com/aero/story.php?id=2524130 Interview: Vijay Kumar Saraswat]{{dead link|date=August 2021|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}} suggesting that India initiated the programme in light of Pakistan's eschewing of a nuclear No first use policy and heightened tensions during the Kargil War including a possibility of full-scale nuclear war. Development accelerated after Washington vetoed a bid by India to acquire the Israeli Arrow-2 interceptor in 2002.{{cite web|url=http://nationalinterest.org/blog/the-buzz/americas-killer-m1-abrams-tank-now-has-its-own-shields-22719|title=Get Ready, Pakistan: India Is Developing Its Own Missile-Defense Shield|first=Sebastien|last=Roblin|date=15 October 2017|access-date=3 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181104125908/https://nationalinterest.org/blog/the-buzz/americas-killer-m1-abrams-tank-now-has-its-own-shields-22719|archive-date=4 November 2018|url-status=live}}

Phase-I of the system will enable interception of missiles up to a 2,000-km range, which will be extended to 5,000-km+ range in Phase-II.

Development of the anti-ballistic missile system began in 1999. Around 40 public and private companies were involved in the development of the systems. They include Ordnance Factory Board, Bharat Electronics Limited and Bharat Dynamics among others.{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/todays-paper/tp-economy/article1614356.ece?ref=archive|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120918091519/http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/todays-paper/tp-economy/article1614356.ece?ref=archive|url-status=dead|title=Business Line : Today's Paper / ECONOMY : 40 cos involved in making o...|date=18 September 2012|archive-date=18 September 2012|access-date=3 November 2018}}

Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) developed the mission control software for the AAD missile. Research Centre Imarat (RCI) developed navigation, electromechanical actuation systems and the active radar seeker. Advanced Systems Laboratory (ASL) provided the motors, jet vanes and structures for the AAD and PAD. High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL) supplied the propellants for the missile.{{Cite news|first=T.S.|last=Subramanian|url=http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/fline/fl2425/stories/20080104242512300.htm|title=Smashing hit|date=22 December 2007|work=Frontline|access-date=6 February 2008|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110817221339/http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/fline/fl2425/stories/20080104242512300.htm|archive-date=17 August 2011|location=Chennai, India}} Research Centre Imarat and Programme Air Defence (PGAD) at Hyderabad are spearheading the Indian Ballistic Missile Defence Programme.{{cite web |title=Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) Programme (PGAD) |url=https://www.drdo.gov.in/ballistic-missile-defence-bmd-programme-pgad |website=Defence Research and Development Organisation |publisher=Ministry of Defence |access-date=27 December 2021 |archive-date=27 December 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211227122441/https://www.drdo.gov.in/ballistic-missile-defence-bmd-programme-pgad |url-status=live }}

By April 2019, the Phase-1 of the program was completed.{{Cite news|url=https://theprint.in/defence/india-completes-phase-one-of-ballistic-missile-defence-programme-nod-for-missiles-awaited/224959/|title=India completes phase one of ballistic missile defence programme, nod for missiles awaited|date=23 April 2019|work=The Print|access-date=8 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190807170949/https://theprint.in/defence/india-completes-phase-one-of-ballistic-missile-defence-programme-nod-for-missiles-awaited/224959/|archive-date=7 August 2019|url-status=live}}

Two new anti ballistic missiles that can intercept IRBMs and ICBMs are being developed. These high speed missiles (AD-1 and AD-2) are being developed to intercept ballistic missiles with a range of around {{convert|5000|km|abbr=on}}.{{cite web |url=http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/008200801071858.htm |title=India to develop high speed interceptors |work=The Hindu |date=7 January 2008 |access-date=6 December 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121105191155/http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/008200801071858.htm |archive-date=5 November 2012 |url-status=live }} The new missile will be similar to the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile deployed by the US. These missiles will travel at hypersonic speeds and will require radars with scan capability of over {{convert|1500|km|abbr=on}} to successfully intercept the target.{{cite web|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=31874§ionid=4&issueid=96&Itemid=1 |title=DRDO readies shield against Chinese ICBMs |work=India Today |date=9 March 2009 |access-date=6 December 2012}}

On 6 May 2012, Dr. V. K. Saraswat confirmed the completion of Phase-I and added that Phase-II was planned to be completed by 2016 to protect against missiles having range up to 5,000 km, and intercept missiles which are capable of hypersonic speeds above Mach 5.

India is also planning to develop a laser-based weapon system as part of its defence to intercept and destroy missiles soon after they are launched towards the country. DRDO's Air Defence Programme Director V. K. Saraswat says its ideal to destroy a ballistic missile carrying nuclear or conventional warheads in its boost phase. Saraswat further added that it will take another 10–15 years for the premier defence research institute to make it usable on the ground.{{cite news|url=http://www.hindu.com/holnus/008200901181531.htm |location=Chennai, India |work=The Hindu |title=India plans to use laser weapons in Ballistic Missile Defence |date=18 January 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110201062233/http://www.hindu.com/holnus/008200901181531.htm |archive-date=1 February 2011 }}

The two-tiered BMD System consists of the PAD, which will intercept missiles at exo-atmospheric altitudes of {{convert|50|-|80|km|abbr=on}} and the AAD missile for interception at endo-atmospheric altitudes of up to {{convert|30|km|abbr=on}}. The deployed system would consist of many launch vehicles, radars, Launch Control Centres (LCC) and the Mission Control Centre (MCC). All these are geographically distributed and connected by a secure communication network.

The MCC is the software intensive component of the ballistic missile defence system. It receives information from various sources such as radars and satellites which is then processed by ten computers which run simultaneously. The MCC is connected to all other elements of the defence through a WAN. The MCC performs target classifications and assignment as well as kill assessments. It also acts as a decision support system for the commander. It can also decide the number of interceptors required for the target for an assured kill probability. After performing all these functions, the MCC assigns the target to the LCC of a launch battery. The LCC starts computing the time to launch the interceptor based upon information received from a radar based on the speed, altitude and flight path of the target. The LCC prepares the missile for launch in real time and carries out ground guidance computation.

After the interceptor is launched, it is provided target information from the radar through a datalink. When the interceptors close onto the target missile, it activates the radar seeker to search for the target missile and guides itself to intercept the target. Multiple PAD and AAD interceptors can be launched against a target for high kill probability.

File:A modified Prithvi missile as the enemy target lifting off from the integrated test range at Chandipur-on-sea for the advanced air defence missile test on December 06, 2007.jpg

The Prithvi Air Defence (PAD), also known as Pradyumna Ballistic Missile Interceptor is an anti-ballistic missile developed to intercept incoming ballistic missiles outside the atmosphere (exo-atmospheric). Based on the Prithvi missile, PAD is a two-stage missile with a maximum interception altitude of {{convert|80|km|abbr=on}}. The first stage is a Solid fuelled motor while the second stage is Liquid fuelled.[http://www.space.com/spacenews/archive07/indbmd_0129.html India Plans Second Anti-Ballistic-Missile Test in June] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090711191002/http://www.space.com/spacenews/archive07/indbmd_0129.html |date=11 July 2009 }}The interceptor rocket has a liquid-fuelled first stage that uses two propellants and oxidisers, and a solid-fuel second stage with a gas thruster that can turn the rocket at more than five Gs. The missile carries sensors to guide it to its target. It has manoeuvre thrusters which can generate a lateral acceleration of more than 5 gs at {{convert|50|km|abbr=on}} altitude. Guidance is provided by an internal navigation system with mid-course updates from LRTR and active radar homing in the terminal phase. PAD has capability to engage the {{convert|3000|km|abbr=on}} class of ballistic missiles at a speed of Mach 5. PAD is fast enough to hit medium-range ballistic missiles and intermediate-range ballistic missiles.

LRTR is the target acquisition and fire control radar for the PAD missile. It is an active phased array radar having the capability to track 200 targets at a range of {{convert|1500|km|abbr=on}}. The PAD missile has also been called Pradyumna.{{cite web|url=http://www.thepeninsulaqatar.com/Display_news.asp?section=World_News&subsection=India&month=July2008&file=World_News2008072515025.xml|title=The Peninsula On-line: Qatar's leading English Daily|date=27 July 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080727164534/http://www.thepeninsulaqatar.com/Display_news.asp?section=World_News&subsection=India&month=July2008&file=World_News2008072515025.xml|access-date=3 November 2018|archive-date=27 July 2008}}

Further development led to the improvement of the interception range from {{convert|50|to|80|km|abbr=on}}. The improved missile will utilise a gimbaled directional warhead, a technology also used by Israel, the US and Russia. This technology allows for a smaller warhead to destroy the target missile.{{cite web |url=http://www.hindu.com/2009/03/04/stories/2009030460291100.htm |title=Crucial interceptor missile test this week |access-date=6 December 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121108160551/http://www.hindu.com/2009/03/04/stories/2009030460291100.htm |archive-date=8 November 2012 |work=The Hindu |date=4 March 2009 |url-status=dead }}

The second stage of the PAD uses liquid rocket propellant, which corrodes fuel tanks when stored for long, the PAD could not be on standby 24×7. Instead, it would need to be filled up during a period of crisis in anticipation of trouble. This is less than optimal for a weapon intended to defend against an attack at any moment.{{citation needed|date=November 2021}}

Prithvi Air Defence Exercise

The PADE (Prithvi Air Defence Exercise) was conducted in November 2006 in which a PAD missile successfully intercepted a modified Prithvi-II Missile at an altitude of {{convert|50|km|abbr=on}}. The Prithvi-II ballistic missile was modified successfully to mimic the trajectory of M-11 missiles.

The DRDO plans to test the anti-ballistic shield against missiles with a range of {{convert|3000|km|abbr=on}}. The test will be conducted with a modified Prithvi missile launched from a naval ship and the anti-ballistic missile launched from Abdul Kalam Island. The interception of the target missile will take place at approximately {{convert|80|km|abbr=on}} altitude.[http://www.flonnet.com/stories/20090213260309700.htm Missile shield] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090131052422/http://www.flonnet.com/stories/20090213260309700.htm |date=31 January 2009 }}

On 6 March 2009 the DRDO carried out a second successful test of the PAD interceptor missile. The target used was a ship launched Dhanush missile which followed the trajectory of a missile with range of a {{convert|1500|km|abbr=on}}. The target was tracked by Swordfish (LRTR) radar and destroyed by the PAD at {{convert|75|km|abbr=on}} altitude.

On 6 March 2011 DRDO successfully test-fired an interceptor missile from the Advanced Air Defence (AAD) system which destroyed a 'hostile' target ballistic missile, a modified Prithvi, at an altitude of 16 km over the Bay of Bengal. The Advanced Air Defence (AAD) missile positioned at Abdul Kalam Island, about 70 km across sea from Chandipur, received signals from tracking radars installed along the coastline and travelled through the sky at a speed of Mach 4.5 to destroy it.{{cite web |url=http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/interceptor-missile-test-fired-successfully-89715?pfrom=home-India |title=Interceptor missile test fired successfully |publisher=Ndtv.com |date=6 March 2011 |access-date=6 December 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121004152328/http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/interceptor-missile-test-fired-successfully-89715?pfrom=home-India |archive-date=4 October 2012 |url-status=live }}

The Advanced Air Defence (AAD) also known as Ashwin Ballistic Missile Interceptor is an anti-ballistic missile designed to intercept incoming ballistic missiles in the endo-atmosphere at an altitude of {{convert|40|km|abbr=on}}.{{Cite web|last=Gady|first=Franz-Stefan|title=Report: India's Homemade Anti-Ballistic Missile Shield Ready|url=https://thediplomat.com/2020/01/report-indias-homemade-anti-ballistic-missile-shield-ready/|access-date=29 October 2021|website=thediplomat.com|language=en-US|archive-date=29 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211029150734/https://thediplomat.com/2020/01/report-indias-homemade-anti-ballistic-missile-shield-ready/|url-status=live}} The AAD is a single-stage, solid-fuelled missile with siliconised carbon jet vanes. Guidance is similar to that of PAD with indigenous radio frequency seeker. It supports inertial navigation system (INS), mid-course updates from ground-based radar and active radar homing in the terminal phase. It is {{convert|7.5|m|abbr=on}} tall, weighs around {{convert|1.2|t|abbr=on}} and a diameter of less than {{convert|0.5|m|abbr=on}}.{{cite web |url=http://www.hindu.com/2007/12/07/stories/2007120761241800.htm |title=Interceptor missile scores 'direct hit' |date=7 December 2007 |access-date=6 December 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121026072530/http://www.hindu.com/2007/12/07/stories/2007120761241800.htm |archive-date=26 October 2012 |work=The Hindu |url-status=dead }}

The land-based launcher of the missile system is manufactured by Tata Advanced Systems (TASL) and was jointly developed by TASL and DRDO. The launcher is based on a 12×12 truck chassis. Each launcher carries 6 missiles in canisterised form and can launch them in Single or Salvo Mode as per situation. The launcher also includes Launch Control System and power generation system. The launcher, termed as Advanced Air Defence Mobile Launcher System (AAD MLS) is equipped with a dual redundant communication link to the Launch Control Complex (LCC) and has an RF Wireless Link and a Physical Link.{{Cite web |last= |first= |title=Advanced Air Defence (AAD) Mobile Launcher System (MLS) |url=https://www.tataadvancedsystems.com/aad-mls |access-date=2024-11-18 |website=Tata Advanced Systems |language=en}}

File:Advance Air Defence (AAD-02) interceptor missile in flying mode, launched from wheeler island of Dhamra coast in Orissa.jpg

• On 6 December 2007, AAD successfully intercepted a modified Prithvi-II missile acting as an incoming ballistic missile enemy target. The endo-atmospheric interception was carried out at an altitude of {{convert|15|km|abbr=on}}. The interceptor and all the elements performed in a copy book fashion validating the endo-atmospheric layer of the defence system. The launch was also shown through a video link at a control room of DRDO Bhawan, in Delhi. The sequence of events of the test was as follows. At 11 am the Prithvi (missile) lifted off from Launch Complex III at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur, Odisha. Radars at Konark, Paradip detected the missile and were continuously tracking it. The target information was sent to MCC for further processing. MCC classified the target, calculated the trajectory of the missile and assigned the target to an AAD battery located on Abdul Kalam Island (Abdul Kalam Island), {{convert|70|km|abbr=on}} across the sea from Chandipur. The AAD was launched when the Prithvi reached an apogee of {{convert|110|km|abbr=on}}. The AAD, with the help of midcourse updates and its terminal seeker, manoeuvred itself towards the target. The AAD made a direct hit at an altitude of {{convert|15|km|abbr=on}} and at a speed of Mach 4. Radars detected formation of a large number of tracks, signifying that the target had broken into multiple pieces. The thermal cameras located on Abdul Kalam Island also picked up the direct hit through thermal images.
• On 26 July 2010, AAD was successfully test-fired from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Abdul Kalam Island off the Odisha's east coast.{{cite news |url=http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/advanced-air-defence-interceptor-missile-successfully-test-fired-39780 |title=Advanced Air Defence interceptor missile successfully test-fired |publisher=NDTV.com |date=26 July 2010 |access-date=2 August 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121002233407/http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/advanced-air-defence-interceptor-missile-successfully-test-fired-39780 |archive-date=2 October 2012 |url-status=live }}
• On 6 March 2011, India launched its indigenously-developed interceptor missile from the Odisha coast. India successfully test-fired its interceptor missile which destroyed a 'hostile' target ballistic missile, a modified Prithvi, at an altitude of 16 km over the Bay of Bengal. The interceptor, Advanced Air Defence (AAD) missile positioned at Abdul Kalam Island, about 70 km across sea from Chandipur, received signals from tracking radars installed along the coastline and travelled through the sky at a speed of Mach 5 to destroy it. As the trial was aimed at achieving the desired result with precision, the interceptor missile had its own mobile launcher, secure data link for interception, independent tracking and homing capabilities and sophisticated radars. "It was a fantastic launch. The trial, conducted from two launch sites of ITR off Orissa coast for developing a full fledged multi-layer Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) system, was fully successful", he said.{{cite news |url=http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/interceptor-missile-test-fired-successfully-89715 |title=Interceptor missile test fired successfully |publisher=NDTV.com |date=6 March 2011 |access-date=2 August 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121004152345/http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/interceptor-missile-test-fired-successfully-89715 |archive-date=4 October 2012 |url-status=live }}
• On 10 February 2012, the AAD was again successfully test-fired from Abdul Kalam Island off the state coast near Dhamra in Bhadrak district, about 170 km from Bhubaneswar.{{cite news | url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/India-successfully-test-fires-missile-interceptor/articleshow/11833769.cms | work=The Times of India | title=India successfully test-fires missile interceptor | date=10 February 2012 | access-date=10 February 2012 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120210104831/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/India-successfully-test-fires-missile-interceptor/articleshow/11833769.cms | archive-date=10 February 2012 | url-status=live }}File:The Ballistic Missile Interceptor Advanced Area Defence (AAD) flight tested from Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha on August 02, 2018.JPG
• On 23 November 2012, India again successfully testfired its home-made supersonic Advanced Air Defence (AAD) interceptor missile from a defence base off the coast of the eastern state of Odisha. "The test-firing was part of India's efforts to create a missile defence shield against incoming enemy missiles. The AAD interceptor missile, which was fired from the Abdul Kalam Island off the Odishan coast, successfully destroyed, in mid-air, an incoming ballistic missile launched from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, about 70 km from the Abdul Kalam Island."{{cite news | url=http://defencenews.in/defence-news-internal.asp?get=new&id=1465 | title=India successfully test-fires AAD missile interceptor | date=23 November 2012 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130311002913/http://defencenews.in/defence-news-internal.asp?get=new&id=1465 | archive-date=11 March 2013 }}
• On 6 April 2015 an improved AAD was tested. The missile was launched from a canister for the first time and the composite rocket motor fired successfully. The missile had improvements over the previous version in terms of bigger warhead, improved maneuverability and reduced miss-distance. As the missile was in the air one of the sub systems malfunctioned, making it veer away from the flight path resulting in the failure of the mission. Another test was planned to take place within 30–45 days after detecting and resolving the problem.{{cite news|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/star-wars-setback-as-drdo-interceptor-missile-malfunctions-115040601007_1.html|title=Star Wars setback as DRDO interceptor missile malfunctions|first=Ajai|last=Shukla|newspaper=Business Standard India|date=7 April 2015|access-date=3 November 2018|via=Business Standard|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181104050220/https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/star-wars-setback-as-drdo-interceptor-missile-malfunctions-115040601007_1.html|archive-date=4 November 2018|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/intercepter-missile-test-odisha-coast-wheeler-island-drdo/article7073662.ece|title=Interceptor missile test off Odisha coast fails|first=Y.|last=Mallikarjun|newspaper=The Hindu|date=6 April 2015|access-date=3 November 2018|via=www.thehindu.com|archive-date=17 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201217121026/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/intercepter-missile-test-odisha-coast-wheeler-island-drdo/article7073662.ece|url-status=live}}
• On 22 November 2015, an upgraded version of AAD (Advanced Air Defence) was successfully tested. The anti-ballistic missile took off at 9.40 a.m. from the A.P.J. Abdul Kalam (Wheeler) Island as soon after it received the command to waylay and destroy an incoming electronically simulated target missile. Conditions similar to the launch of a target missile from Balasore were simulated electronically and upon receiving its coordinates, the interceptor missile, travelling at supersonic speed, engaged and destroyed the "virtual target" in mid-flight.{{cite news| url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/upgraded-interceptor-missile-successfully-engages-electronically-simulated-target-missile/article7905298.ece| title=Upgraded interceptor missile successfully hits virtual target| date=22 November 2015| access-date=26 November 2015| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160123001117/http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/upgraded-interceptor-missile-successfully-engages-electronically-simulated-target-missile/article7905298.ece| archive-date=23 January 2016| url-status=live}}
• On 15 May 2016, DRDO officially reported that AAD intercepted and destroyed a Prithvi ballistic missile fired from a ship.{{Cite web |url=http://www.tribuneindia.com/news/nation/india-successfully-test-fires-supersonic-interceptor-missile/237107.html |title=India successfully test-fires supersonic interceptor missile |access-date=15 May 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160518060300/http://www.tribuneindia.com/news/nation/india-successfully-test-fires-supersonic-interceptor-missile/237107.html |archive-date=18 May 2016 |url-status=live }}{{Cite news |date=2016-05-16 |title=India successfully tests interceptor missile |url=http://www.dawn.com/news/1258638 |access-date=2022-07-03 |work=Dawn |archive-date=3 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220703094708/https://www.dawn.com/news/1258638 |url-status=live }}
• On 28 December 2017, DRDO successfully carried out an AAD missile test in which an incoming modified Prithvi ballistic missile was intercepted and destroyed with a direct hit.{{Cite news|url=https://kalingatv.com/latestnews/supersonic-interceptor-missile-test-fired-kalam-island/|title=Supersonic interceptor missile test-fired from Kalam Island • KalingaTV|date=28 December 2017|work=KalingaTV|access-date=28 December 2017|language=en-US|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171228172101/https://kalingatv.com/latestnews/supersonic-interceptor-missile-test-fired-kalam-island/|archive-date=28 December 2017|url-status=live}}
• On 3 August 2018, a successful test was carried out from Abdul Kalam Island where one of multiple incoming targets simulating 1,500 km class ballistic missiles was destroyed.{{cite news |title=India successfully test-fires supersonic interceptor missile off Odisha's coast |url=http://www.rediff.com/news/report/supersonic-interceptor-missile-successfully-test-fired/20180802.htm |work=Rediff.com |agency=Press Trust of India |date=2 August 2018 |access-date=2 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180802223544/http://www.rediff.com/news/report/supersonic-interceptor-missile-successfully-test-fired/20180802.htm |archive-date=2 August 2018 |url-status=live }}

The DRDO Floating Test Range is expected to assist in the development of the Phase 2.{{Cite news |date=27 October 2019 |title=India's 1st floating test range ready, ballistic missile defence trials on cards |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/new-age-weapons-set-to-add-to-india-s-arsenal/story-SUcRAjtwyZRej8Fq0SHSJJ.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191027151316/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/new-age-weapons-set-to-add-to-india-s-arsenal/story-SUcRAjtwyZRej8Fq0SHSJJ.html |archive-date=27 October 2019 |access-date=27 October 2019 |work=Hindustan Times |language=en}} This vessel INS Anvesh (A41) was set to undergo sea trials in September 2021.{{Cite news |date=21 September 2021 |title=Sea trials for floating missile test range INS Anvesh begin this month |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/sea-trials-for-floating-missile-test-range-ins-anvesh-begin-this-month-101630984781024.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211102144054/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/sea-trials-for-floating-missile-test-range-ins-anvesh-begin-this-month-101630984781024.html |archive-date=2 November 2021 |access-date=2 November 2021 |work=Hindustan Times |language=en}} On 21 April 2023, DRDO and the Indian Navy conducted the maiden flight trial of the sea-based interceptor missile for naval ballistic missile defence capability.{{Cite news |date=2023-04-23 |title=India successfully carries out maiden flight-test of sea-based ballistic missile defence interceptor |url=https://theigmp.org/sea-based-ballistic-missile-defence-interceptor/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230509063432/https://theigmp.org/sea-based-ballistic-missile-defence-interceptor/ |archive-date=9 May 2023 |access-date=2023-04-24 |website=IgMp}}{{Cite news |date=2023-04-22 |title=India showcases naval ballistic missile defence capability in maiden test |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/drdo-and-indian-navy-successfully-test-sea-based-endo-atmospheric-interceptor-missile-showcasing-india-s-naval-bmd-capabilities-missiledefence-drdo-indiannavy-bmd-ballisticmissiles-101682176497606.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230422183108/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/drdo-and-indian-navy-successfully-test-sea-based-endo-atmospheric-interceptor-missile-showcasing-india-s-naval-bmd-capabilities-missiledefence-drdo-indiannavy-bmd-ballisticmissiles-101682176497606.html |archive-date=22 April 2023 |access-date=2023-04-22 |work=Hindustan Times |language=en}}

Prithvi Defence Vehicle (PDV) is an anti-ballistic missile designed to intercept incoming ballistic missiles in the exo-atmosphere at an altitude from {{convert|50|km|abbr=on}} to {{convert|180|km|abbr=on}}. The PDV is a two-stage missile and both the stages are powered by solid propellants. It has an innovative system for controlling the vehicle at an altitude of more than 180 km. The PDV is intended to replace the existing PAD in the PAD/AAD combination. It has a IIR seeker for its kill vehicle as well. The PDV will replace the PAD with a far more capable missile and will complete Phase 1 of the BMD system, allowing it to be operational by 2013. Whereupon Phase 2 development will take over for protection against missiles of the {{convert|5000|km|abbr=on}} range class.{{cite web |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/site/Story/31874/LATEST%20HEADLINES/DRDO+readies+shield+against+Chinese+ICBMs.html |title=DRDO readies shield against Chinese ICBMs |work=India Today |date=9 March 2009 |access-date=6 December 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110316075551/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/site/Story/31874/LATEST%20HEADLINES/DRDO+readies+shield+against+Chinese+ICBMs.html |archive-date=16 March 2011 |url-status=live }} The first test flight of the missile was expected in 2010.{{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20130411201634/http://www.drdo.org/pub/nl/2010/jan10.pdf DRDO publication Jan 2010.]}} The PDV is designed to take out target missiles at altitudes above {{convert|150|km|abbr=on}}.{{cite web |url=http://www.hindu.com/2009/10/17/stories/2009101755791100.htm |title=DRDO to launch series of missiles |access-date=6 December 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121108160559/http://www.hindu.com/2009/10/17/stories/2009101755791100.htm |archive-date=8 November 2012 |work=The Hindu |date=17 October 2009 |url-status=dead }}

On 27 April 2014 first PDV was successfully test- conducted by DRDO.{{cite web|url=http://news.outlookindia.com/items.aspx?artid=838755 |title=India Successfully Test-Fires New Interceptor Missile |publisher=News.outlookindia.com |access-date=30 April 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140428163936/http://news.outlookindia.com/items.aspx?artid=838755 |archive-date=28 April 2014 }} On 11 February 2017, DRDO successfully conducted a second test for PDV missile.{{cite news|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/india-successfully-test-fires-interceptor-missile/articleshow/57093816.cms|title=India successfully test-fires interceptor missile - Times of India |work=The Times of India |date=11 February 2017 |access-date=3 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190502202042/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/india-successfully-test-fires-interceptor-missile/articleshow/57093816.cms|archive-date=2 May 2019|url-status=live}} The third test was conducted on 12 February 2019.{{cite news|url=https://odishasuntimes.com/india-test-fires-high-speed-interceptor-missile-off-odisha-coast/|title=India test fires high speed interceptor missile off Odisha coast |website=odishasuntimes.com |access-date=12 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190212190430/https://odishasuntimes.com/india-test-fires-high-speed-interceptor-missile-off-odisha-coast/|archive-date=12 February 2019|url-status=usurped}}

{{See also|Mission Shakti}}

File:DRDO's Ballistic Missile Defence interceptor being launched for an ASAT test on 27 March 2019.jpg]]

In March 2019, India conducted an ASAT test.{{Cite web|url=https://thediplomat.com/2019/05/why-indias-asat-test-was-reckless/|title=Why India's ASAT Test Was Reckless|first=Marco|last=Langbroek|website=The Diplomat|language=en-US|access-date=13 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190506215045/https://thediplomat.com/2019/05/why-indias-asat-test-was-reckless/|archive-date=6 May 2019|url-status=live}} India officially confirmed that this missile was a Ballistic Missile Defence interceptor.{{Cite web|url=https://www.mea.gov.in/press-releases.htm?dtl/31179/Frequently_Asked_Questions_on_Mission_Shakti_Indias_AntiSatellite_Missile_test_conducted_on_27_March_2019|title=Frequently Asked Questions on Mission Shakti, India's Anti-Satellite Missile test conducted on 27 March, 2019|website=Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India|access-date=13 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190410104320/https://www.mea.gov.in/press-releases.htm?dtl%2F31179%2FFrequently_Asked_Questions_on_Mission_Shakti_Indias_AntiSatellite_Missile_test_conducted_on_27_March_2019|archive-date=10 April 2019|url-status=dead}} PDV Mk-2 is a 13 m tall, 18.87 tons, three stage missile. Solid rocket motors with flexible nozzles constituted the first two stages, with the Kill Vehicle being the third stage.{{Cite web|url=https://www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/pub/npc/2019/April/din-10april2019.pdf|title=DRDO in News|date=10 April 2019|website=Defence Research and Development Organisation|access-date=13 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190424072021/https://www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/pub/npc/2019/April/din-10april2019.pdf|archive-date=24 April 2019|url-status=dead}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.janes.com/article/87788/india-s-drdo-reveals-additional-details-of-recent-asat-missile-test|title=India's DRDO reveals additional details of recent ASAT missile test {{!}} Jane's 360|website=Jane's 360|access-date=13 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190807054435/https://www.janes.com/article/87788/india-s-drdo-reveals-additional-details-of-recent-asat-missile-test|archive-date=7 August 2019|url-status=live}} According to a report published on the official DRDO website, the missile has the capability to shoot down targets moving at 10 km per second in orbits as high as 1,200 km.{{Cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/satellite-killer-not-a-one-off-india-working-on-star-wars-armoury/articleshow/68758674.cms|title=ASAT missile: Satellite-killer not a one-off, India working on star wars armoury|last=Pandit|first=Rajat|date=7 April 2019|work=The Times of India |language=en|access-date=13 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190602123612/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/satellite-killer-not-a-one-off-india-working-on-star-wars-armoury/articleshow/68758674.cms|archive-date=2 June 2019|url-status=live}} The accuracy of the missile is less than 10 cm{{Cite web |last1=Pandit |first1=Rajat |date=7 April 2019 |title=ASAT missile: Satellite-killer not a one-off, India working on star wars armoury |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/satellite-killer-not-a-one-off-india-working-on-star-wars-armoury/articleshow/68758674.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190602123612/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/satellite-killer-not-a-one-off-india-working-on-star-wars-armoury/articleshow/68758674.cms |archive-date=2 June 2019 |access-date=8 November 2019 |work=The Times of India |language=en}}

It has been suggested that this missile may have the capability of exo-atmospheric interception of intercontinental ballistic missiles.{{Cite news|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/asat-test-shows-india-has-means-to-destroy-icbms-in-outer-space-experts-119042200713_1.html|title=ASAT test shows India has means to destroy ICBMs in outer space: Experts|last=Kumar|first=Bhaswar|date=22 April 2019|work=Business Standard India|access-date=13 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190807064526/https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/asat-test-shows-india-has-means-to-destroy-icbms-in-outer-space-experts-119042200713_1.html|archive-date=7 August 2019|url-status=live}} A report published on the official DRDO website suggested the same.{{Cite web|url=https://www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/pub/npc/2019/May/din-03may2019.pdf|title=DRDO ASAT test|date=3 May 2019|website=Defence Research and Development Organisation|access-date=13 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190810061625/https://www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/pub/npc/2019/May/din-03may2019.pdf|archive-date=10 August 2019|url-status=dead}} At DefExpo 2020, DRDO confirmed that the PDV Mk-2 was ready for limited series production.{{Cite web|url=https://www.janes.com/article/94168/defexpo-2020-drdo-says-asat-weapon-system-is-ready-for-further-limited-production|title=Defexpo 2020: DRDO says ASAT weapon system is 'ready for further limited production' {{!}} Jane's 360|website=www.janes.com|access-date=15 February 2020|archive-date=15 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200215075938/https://www.janes.com/article/94168/defexpo-2020-drdo-says-asat-weapon-system-is-ready-for-further-limited-production|url-status=live}} The solid rocket booster used is a derivative of the technology first developed for the Sagarika missile.{{Cite web|last=Unnithan|first=Sandeep|date=31 December 2021|title=The 'K' factor in the recent missile tests|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india-today-insight/story/the-k-factor-in-the-recent-missile-tests-1894315-2021-12-30|access-date=2022-01-01|website=India Today|language=en|archive-date=31 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211231100529/https://www.indiatoday.in/india-today-insight/story/the-k-factor-in-the-recent-missile-tests-1894315-2021-12-30|url-status=live}} This missile was not derived from the Prithvi ballistic missile.{{Cite web |date=2019-03-28 |title=SAT not a derivative of Prithvi missile, has a range of upto 1000 km-plus, says DRDO Chairman |url=https://www.aninews.in/news/national/general-news/a-sat-not-a-derivative-of-prithvi-missile-has-a-range-of-upto-1000-km-plus-says-drdo-chairman20190328092125/?amp=1 |access-date=2024-08-03 |website=ANI}}

Initially under Phase 2 program, AD-1 was designed to neutralize a medium-range ballistic missile at 1,000-3,000 km range, whereas AD-2 was for intercepting a intermediate-range ballistic missile at 3,000-5,500 km range.{{Cite web |date=2022-11-02 |title=Maiden flight-test of Phase-II Ballistic Missile Defence interceptor successful |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/defence/maiden-flight-test-of-phase-ii-ballistic-missile-defence-interceptor-successful/2771489/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221102193902/https://www.financialexpress.com/defence/maiden-flight-test-of-phase-ii-ballistic-missile-defence-interceptor-successful/2771489/ |archive-date=2 November 2022 |access-date=2022-11-02 |website=Financialexpress |language=en}} According to Samir V. Kamat, AD-1 can intercept an incoming missile with a range of 5,000 km.{{Cite web |date=3 November 2022 |title=Watch: India Tests AD-1 Missile. Can Intercept Target From 5,000 Km Away |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/watch-india-tests-ad-1-missile-can-intercept-target-from-5-000-km-away-3487092 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221103132511/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/watch-india-tests-ad-1-missile-can-intercept-target-from-5-000-km-away-3487092 |archive-date=3 November 2022 |access-date=2022-11-03 |website=NDTV}}

File:AD-1 long-range interceptor missile - 1.jpg

The AD-1 interceptor missile is developed for both low exo-atmospheric and endo-atmospheric interception roles and can be used against long range ballistic missiles. It is a two-stage missile and powered by solid propellants. The missile boasts an advanced but indigenous missile control system. It has a range of 1,500 km to 3,000 km along with a large kill altitude bracket.{{Cite web |last=Bureau |first=BL New Delhi |date=2022-11-02 |title=DRDO conducts successful maiden flight-test of BMD interceptor AD-1 missile |url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/science/drdo-conducts-successful-maiden-flight-test-of-bmd-interceptor-ad-1-missile/article66087123.ece |access-date=2024-02-18 |website=BusinessLine |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=India test-flies indigenous AD-1 missile |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/india-test-flies-indigenous-ad-1-missile |access-date=2024-02-18 |website=Janes.com |language=en}} It has the capability to neutralise any nuclear-capable ballistic missile with a range of about 5,000 km.{{Cite news |date=2024-07-24 |title=India tests ballistic missile defence system to intercept 5,000-km class enemy missiles |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/india-tests-ballistic-missile-defence-system-to-intercept-5000-km-class-enemy-missiles/articleshow/111996217.cms |access-date=2024-07-26 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}{{cite news |date=24 July 2024 |title=India successfully flight-tests Phase-II ballistic missile defence system |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/india-successfully-tests-ballistic-missile-defence-system/articleshow/111994511.cms?from=mdr |access-date=25 July 2024 |work=The Economic Times |agency=PTI}}

On 2 November 2022, the maiden successful test of the missile was conducted by DRDO. The test witnessed the participation of all BMD weapon system elements placed in different locations. The test was successful and all sub systems performed satisfactorily.{{Cite web |title=DRDO conducts successful maiden flight-test of Phase-II Ballistic Missile Defence interceptor off Odisha coast |url=https://pib.gov.in/pib.gov.in/Pressreleaseshare.aspx?PRID=1873179 |access-date=2024-02-18 |website=pib.gov.in}}

On 24 July 2024, DRDO conducted another successful flight test of the Phase-II Ballistic Missile Defence System.{{Cite web |date=2024-07-25 |title=India advances Phase II BMD interceptor |url=https://www.janes.com/osint-insights/defence-news/security/india-advances-phase-ii-bmd-interceptor |access-date=2024-07-26 |website=Default |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Thakur |first=Vijainder K. |date=2024-07-26 |title=THAAD's Analog, S-400's Partner, DRDO's AD-1 Missile Interceptor Puts India In The Elite League |url=https://www.eurasiantimes.com/thaads-analog-s-400s-partner-drdos/ |access-date=2024-07-26 |website=eurasiantimes.com |language=en-US}} At 1620 hours, the target missile was fired from Launch Complex-IV Dhamra in an attempt to simulate an adversary missile. Weapon system radars stationed on land and at sea spotted the target missile, activating the AD-1 Interceptor system. At 1624 hours, the AD-1 endo-atmospheric missile was fired from the ITR Launch Complex-III Chandipur. The entire network-centric weapon system, which includes interceptor missile, mission control center (MCC), low latency communication system, and long range sensors, were validated during the test.{{Cite web |date=2024-07-24 |title=DRDO successfully flight-tests Phase-II Ballistic Missile Defence System |url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2036561 |access-date=2024-07-25 |website=Press Information Bureau}}{{Cite web |last=Lele |first=Ajey |date=2024-07-27 |title=How DRDO’s successful Ballistic Missile Defence test is critical to India’s security |url=https://www.firstpost.com/opinion/how-drdos-successful-ballistic-missile-defence-test-is-critical-to-indias-security-13797658.html |access-date=2024-10-04 |website=Firstpost |language=en-us}}{{cite news |date=24 July 2024 |title=Video: India Successfully Tests Phase 2 Ballistic Missile Defence System |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/video-india-successfully-tests-phase-2-ballistic-missile-defence-system-6180352 |access-date=25 July 2024 |publisher=NDTV |agency=PTI}}{{Cite web |last=Rout |first=Hemant Kumar |date=2024-07-24 |title=India successfully tests BMD system as interceptor destroys incoming missile |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2024/Jul/24/india-successfully-tests-bmd-system-as-interceptor-destroys-incoming-missile |access-date=2024-07-26 |website=The New Indian Express |language=en}}

The AD-2 missile is in the development phase with a maximum range of more than 5,000 km capable of intercepting intermediate-range ballistic missile and intercontinental ballistic missile. The missile was scheduled to be tested between 2024 and 2025.

{{Main|Swordfish Long Range Tracking Radar}}

Swordfish is the target acquisition and fire control radar for the BMD system. The Long Range Tracking Radar (LRTR) currently has a range of {{convert|600|km|abbr=on}} to {{convert|800|km|abbr=on}} and can spot objects as small as a cricket ball. The DRDO plans to upgrade the capacity of Swordfish to 1,500 km by 2017.{{cite news |author=Peerzada Abrar |date=3 December 2009 |title=Major defence deals up for grabs |url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics/nation/Major-defence-deals-up-for-grabs/articleshow/5294065.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170102233616/http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics/nation/Major-defence-deals-up-for-grabs/articleshow/5294065.cms |archive-date=2 January 2017 |access-date=6 December 2012 |work=The Economic Times}}

As per the Ministry of Defence (MoD), two units of VLRTR systems were accorded by the Union Government under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the National Technical Research Organisation (NTRO) and the Indian Air Force for the Indian Ballistic Missile Defence Programme. First unit was raised in 2017 and the system is operational.{{cite web |title=Major Achievements from 2014 to 2018 |url=https://archive.pib.gov.in/4YearsOfNDA/Comprehensive-Materials/defence.pdf |access-date=30 September 2021 |website=Press Information Bureau |publisher=Ministry of Defence, Government of India}}

According to scientist V K Saraswat of the DRDO, the missiles will work in tandem to ensure a hit probability of 99.8 percent. On 6 May 2012, Dr V K Saraswat confirmed that Phase-I was complete and can be deployed to protect two Indian cities at a short notice. He also added that Phase-I was comparable with the PAC-3 system.{{cite news |agency=Press Trust of India |url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/article3390404.ece |title=Missile defence shield ready: DRDO chief |work=The Hindu |date=6 May 2012 |access-date=6 December 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130114022736/http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/article3390404.ece |archive-date=14 January 2013 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |author=Rajat Pandit|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India_on_way_to_joining_exclusive_BMD_club/rssarticleshow/2570683.cms |title=India on way to joining exclusive BMD club |work=The Times of India |date=26 November 2007 |access-date=6 December 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130513163850/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India_on_way_to_joining_exclusive_BMD_club/rssarticleshow/2570683.cms |archive-date=13 May 2013 |url-status=live }}

New Delhi, the national capital, and Mumbai were selected for the ballistic missile defence shield.{{cite news| url= http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Delhi-Mumbai-selected-for-ballistic-missile-defence-shield/articleshow/14370157.cms| title= Delhi, Mumbai selected for ballistic missile defence shield |work=The Times of India | date= 24 June 2012| access-date= 24 June 2012| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120624214841/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Delhi-Mumbai-selected-for-ballistic-missile-defence-shield/articleshow/14370157.cms| archive-date= 24 June 2012| url-status= live}} After successful implementation in Delhi and Mumbai, the system will be used to cover other major cities in the country.{{cite web |url=http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/delhi-mumbai-to-get-missile-defence-shield-235328 |title=Delhi, Mumbai to get missile defence shield – NDTV News |publisher=Ndtv.com |date=24 June 2012 |access-date=6 December 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130412170400/http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/delhi-mumbai-to-get-missile-defence-shield-235328 |archive-date=12 April 2013 |url-status=live }} This shield can destroy incoming ballistic missiles launched from as far as {{convert|2500|km|mi|abbr=on}} away. When the Phase II is completed and PDV is developed, the two anti-ballistic missiles can intercept targets from up to {{convert|5000|km|mi|abbr=on}} both at exo and endo-atmospheric (inside the atmosphere) regions.{{cite news|title=More Teeth to Defence System|url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/more-teeth-to-defence-system/230239-60-117.html|access-date=27 July 2012|newspaper=IBNLive|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924150111/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1110326/jsp/nation/story_13768094.jsp|archive-date=24 September 2015|url-status=live}}{{cite news |agency=Press Trust of India |url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics/nation/delhi-mumbai-to-be-first-provided-with-missile-defence-shield/articleshow/14370434.cms |title=Delhi, Mumbai to be first provided with missile defence shield |work=The Economic Times |date=24 June 2012 |access-date=6 December 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140519045307/http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics/nation/delhi-mumbai-to-be-first-provided-with-missile-defence-shield/articleshow/14370434.cms |archive-date=19 May 2014 |url-status=live }}

In August 2017, the government cleared the allocation of 850 hectares of land in Alwar district and 350 hectares in Pali district of Rajasthan for setting up radars to track missiles to the DRDO.{{Cite news|url=http://www.dnaindia.com/jaipur/report-2-state-villages-chosen-by-drdo-for-setting-up-radar-to-track-enemy-2520834|title=2 state villages chosen by DRDO for setting up radar to track enemy {{!}} Latest News & Updates at Daily News & Analysis|date=4 August 2017|work=dna|access-date=11 August 2017|language=en-US|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170811062621/http://www.dnaindia.com/jaipur/report-2-state-villages-chosen-by-drdo-for-setting-up-radar-to-track-enemy-2520834|archive-date=11 August 2017|url-status=live}}

Defending against an attack by a cruise missile, on the other hand, is similar to tackling a low-flying crewed aircraft and hence most methods of aircraft defence can be used for a cruise missile defence system.

In order to ward off the threats of nuke-tipped cruise missile attack India has a new missile defence programme which will be focused solely on intercepting cruise missiles. The technological breakthrough has been created with an Advanced Air Defence missile (AAD).{{cite news|title=India discovers methods to face missile wars|url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/missile-wars-india-prepares-itself-after-cruise-missile-tests-by-pak/54298-3.html|access-date=8 August 2012|newspaper=IBNLive|date=16 December 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924150111/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1110326/jsp/nation/story_13768094.jsp|archive-date=24 September 2015|url-status=live}}

DRDO Chief, Dr V K Saraswat stated in an Interview "Our studies have indicated that this AAD will be able to handle a cruise missile intercept".

Furthermore, India is acquiring airborne radars like EL/W-2090 AWACS to ensure detection of cruise missiles in order to stay on top of the threat.

Barak-8 is a long-range anti-air and anti-missile naval defence system developed jointly by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) of India. The Indian Army inducted a variant of Barak 8 missile to meet its requirement for a medium-range surface-to-air air defence missile. The naval version of this missile has the capability to intercept incoming enemy cruise missiles and combat jets targeting its warships at sea.{{cite news|title=February trial for naval air defence missile|url=http://in.news.yahoo.com/february-trial-naval-air-defence-missile-103543198.html|access-date=8 August 2012|newspaper=Indo-Asian News service|date=16 November 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150614193055/https://in.news.yahoo.com/february-trial-naval-air-defence-missile-103543198.html|archive-date=14 June 2015|url-status=dead}} It would also be inducted into the Indian Air Force, followed by the Army.{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/lrsam-flighttested-successfully-in-israel/article6591545.ece|title=LRSAM flight tested successfully in Israel|newspaper=The Hindu|date=12 November 2014|access-date=3 November 2018|via=www.thehindu.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170818222400/http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/lrsam-flighttested-successfully-in-israel/article6591545.ece|archive-date=18 August 2017|url-status=live}} India has a joint venture for this missile with Israel.{{cite news|title=Naval Barak-8 Missiles, Israel, India|url=http://www.naval-technology.com/projects/naval-barak-8-surface-air-missiles/|access-date=8 August 2012|newspaper=Naval Technology|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120808005150/http://www.naval-technology.com/projects/naval-barak-8-surface-air-missiles|archive-date=8 August 2012|url-status=live}} Recently developed, India's Akash missile defence system also has the capability to "neutralise aerial targets like fighter jets, cruise missiles and air-to-surface missiles".{{Cite web |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/akash-missile-successfully-test-fired-for-second-day/ |title=Akash missile successfully test fired for second day, Dated:November 18, 2014 |date=18 November 2014 |access-date=15 June 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150706133433/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/akash-missile-successfully-test-fired-for-second-day/ |archive-date=6 July 2015 |url-status=live }}{{cite web|url=http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/india-successfully-test-fires-medium-range-akash-missile-579358|title=India Successfully Test Fires Medium-Range Akash Missile|access-date=3 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160812154859/http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/india-successfully-test-fires-medium-range-akash-missile-579358|archive-date=12 August 2016|url-status=live}}

Project Kusha is an Indian long-range mobile surface-to- air missile defence system under development by the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO). The missile system will have a range of 250 km against fighter jets, 350 km against cruise missiles, sea skimming anti-ship missiles, AWACS and mid air refuelers and will be capable of bringing down ballistic missiles and stealth fighters in the terminal stage. The naval version of the missile might be also developed to supplement the LR-SAM missile in the Indian Navy.

On 17 November 2010, an interview with Rafael's Vice President Lova Drori confirmed that the David's Sling system has been offered to the Indian Armed Forces.{{cite web |url=http://www.india-defence.com/reports-4813 |title=Rafael Confirms Offer of Iron Dome, David's Sling to Indian Armed Forces |publisher=India-defence.com |access-date=19 April 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130514002646/http://www.india-defence.com/reports-4813 |archive-date=14 May 2013 |url-status=dead }}{{cite news|url=http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3920920,00.html|title=India in talks to buy Iron Dome, David's Sling|newspaper=Ynetnews |date=18 July 2010|access-date=3 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181104131411/https://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-3920920,00.html|archive-date=4 November 2018|url-status=live |last1=Arbib |first1=Stephen }}

• {{flagu|Pakistan}} – Following the successful test on 15 May 2016, Pakistan on 20 May 2016 voiced concerns over India's test-fire of supersonic interceptor missile and said it would "take all necessary measures to augment the country's defense capabilities".{{cite web|url=http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-wary-pakistan-pushes-un-to-declare-indian-ocean-nuclear-free-zone-2214563|title=Wary Pakistan pushes UN to declare Indian Ocean nuclear-free zone|date=20 May 2016|access-date=3 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181104132943/https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-wary-pakistan-pushes-un-to-declare-indian-ocean-nuclear-free-zone-2214563|archive-date=4 November 2018|url-status=live}}
• In 2017, Pakistan claimed that it tested the MIRV, nuclear-capable ballistic missile, Ababeel, in response to the Indian Ballistic Missile Defence system.{{Cite web |title=Ababeel |url=https://missilethreat.csis.org/missile/ababeel/ |access-date=2021-11-22 |website=Missile Threat |language=en-US}}{{cite news |date=24 January 2017 |title=Pakistan conducts first flight test of Ababeel surface-to-surface missile |url=http://www.dawn.com/news/1310452/pakistan-conducts-first-flight-test-of-ababeel-surface-to-surface-missile |access-date=24 January 2017 |work=Dawn}}
• {{flagu|United States}} – According to US Deputy Defence Secretary Ashton Carter, there is a potential for co-operation with India to develop a Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) shield.

"That is an important potential area for our future cooperation", Carter said while on his visit to India in July 2012.{{cite news|title=Potential for cooperation with India to develop BMD: US|url=http://www.business-standard.com/generalnews/news/potential-for-cooperationindia-to-develop-bmd-us/35778/|access-date=25 July 2012|newspaper=Business Standard|date=23 July 2012}}

On 18 December 2023, Zee Business revealed that, as part of a government-to-government agreement, Armenia purchased 15 AAD systems and Akash missile systems from Bharat Dynamics Limited. The transaction was valued at about ₹5,000 crore to ₹6,000 crore.{{Cite web |last=Rath |first=Anuvesh |date=2023-12-18 |title=EXCLUSIVE {{!}} Indian defence triumph: Bharat Dynamics secures major deal from Armenia amidst global achievements, say sources |url=https://www.zeebiz.com/india/news-indian-defence-triumph-bharat-dynamics-secures-major-deal-from-armenia-amidst-global-achievements-say-sources-269201 |access-date=2023-12-20 |website=Zee Business}}

{{Portal|India|Rocketry|Spaceflight}}

• Anti-ballistic missile
• Comparison of anti-ballistic missile systems
• Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme
• List of Indian military missiles
• National Missile Defence
• Defence Research and Development Organisation, the organisation involved in the development of the ABM systems.
• Anti-satellite weapon
• Defence Space Agency

{{Reflist|30em}}

• [http://www.domain-b.com/aero/space/launch_veh/20080108_defence.html India to have Ballistic Missile Defence system in place by 2010]
• [http://www.deagel.com/news/Pradyumna-Ballistic-Missile-Interceptor-Scores-Third-Successful-Test-at-80km-of-Altitude_n000005789.aspx Pradyumna-Ballistic-Missile-Interceptor]
• [https://www.drdo.gov.in/sites/default/files/technology-focus-documrnt/TF_May-Jun_2018_web.pdf DRDO Technology Focus : Warhead for Missiles, Torpedoes and Rockets]

• {{Cite video

|date=September 2007

|title = Brahmos Missile and Interceptor Missile Development

|url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uVmsdJHPU5o

|medium = Television production

|publisher = S1 TV

|time = 1:36

}} – News Report in Hindi.

{{Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)}}

{{Indian missiles}}

{{Politics of outer space}}

Category:Defence Research and Development Organisation

Category:Missile defense

Category:21st-century surface-to-air missiles

Category:Surface-to-air missiles of India

Category:Anti-ballistic missiles of India