Balasore, Nov 4: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has reportedly conducted a successful test of the Pralay missile off the Odisha coast, marking a significant development in India's indigenous defence capabilities.

The test was carried out on November 3 from Launch Pad-3 at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, according to media reports. The missile reportedly destroyed two simulated targets located around 500 kilometres away.

While the DRDO is yet to issue an official statement on the latest test, reports have identified the weapon as the Pralay quasi-ballistic missile.

What Makes the Pralay Missile Special?

Pralay is an indigenously developed surface-to-surface quasi-ballistic missile designed to strike targets with high precision. It has an operational range of up to 500 kilometres and is capable of carrying different types of warheads.

Unlike conventional ballistic missiles, which generally follow a predictable trajectory, a quasi-ballistic missile can fly at a relatively lower altitude and manoeuvre during its flight. These mid-course and terminal-phase manoeuvres make it more challenging for enemy radar and missile defence systems to track and intercept.

Reports on the latest test suggest that the missile achieved speeds of up to Mach 5 during its terminal phase. Its ability to change trajectory adds to its operational capabilities.

The missile is powered by a solid-propellant rocket motor, allowing it to remain in a ready-to-launch state for extended periods. It can also be launched from mobile platforms, offering greater operational flexibility.

Bharat Dynamics Limited and Bharat Electronics Limited are among the industrial partners involved in its production and system integration. The missile uses advanced guidance and navigation systems to achieve high accuracy.

Previous Tests of the Pralay Missile

The first test of the Pralay missile was conducted in December 2021. In July 2025, the DRDO carried out two successful consecutive flight tests off the Odisha coast.

In December 2025, the organisation also successfully conducted a salvo launch of two Pralay missiles in quick succession from the same launcher as part of user evaluation trials.

According to the Ministry of Defence, both missiles followed their intended trajectories and met all flight objectives. The results were confirmed through tracking sensors deployed by the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, and telemetry systems installed on a ship near the impact points.

The missile is intended for induction into the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force. Its precision-strike capability and mobility are expected to strengthen India's conventional defence preparedness.