India becomes fifth country to develop rail-based missile system

September 27, 2025 by News Desk

India achieved a significant milestone in its strategic capabilities by successfully test-firing the Agni-Prime (Agni-P) missile from a rail-based mobile launcher.

This development places India among a select group of nations, including Russia, the United States, China, and possibly North Korea, that possess the technology to launch long-range ballistic missiles from rail platforms.

The test was conducted by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with India’s Strategic Forces Command (SFC).

The Agni-Prime, an intermediate-range ballistic missile with a strike capability of up to 2,000 kilometers, was launched from a specially designed rail-based mobile launcher integrated with India’s extensive railway network.

This mobility allows for flexibility, concealment, and strategic deployment, enhancing the survivability of India’s missile assets.

The rail-based launch system offers several advantages. Its mobility allows missiles to be launched from various locations, complicating adversary targeting efforts.

The system also allows concealment, as launchers can be disguised as ordinary freight trains, and rapid deployment enables quick repositioning during crises.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded the successful test, highlighting its importance in strengthening India’s strategic deterrence capabilities and placing India in the league of countries with advanced rail-mobile missile systems.

This achievement marks a pivotal step in modernizing India’s defense infrastructure and enhancing its nuclear deterrence posture.

By joining the ranks of countries with rail-based missile launchers, India demonstrates its commitment to maintaining a credible and survivable second-strike capability, ensuring national security amid a complex global strategic environment.