The defense ministry has granted approval for the acquisition of a regiment of 'Pralay' ballistic missiles, which will be deployed along the Line of Actual Control and the Line of Control.

The decision to add more firepower to the Army's military capabilities was reached during a recent meeting of the Defence Acquisition Council, and it represents a pivotal development for the Army.

Pralay will be the longest-range surface-to-surface missile in the inventory of the Army.

Pralay, along with the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, will form the crux of India’s planned Rocket Force.

Both China and Pakistan have already deployed ballistic missiles for tactical purposes, and the 'Pralay' missiles, developed by the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), are poised for further enhancements in range as per military requirements.

The procurement follows a similar approval granted to the Indian Air Force for the acquisition of these missiles.

'Pralay' is classified as a quasi-ballistic surface-to-surface missile, featuring advanced capabilities designed to thwart interceptor missiles.

It exhibits the capability to alter its trajectory mid-flight after covering a certain distance.

The missile is propelled by a solid propellant rocket motor and incorporates cutting-edge technologies in its guidance system, including state-of-the-art navigation and integrated avionics.

It can be compared to China’s Dong Feng 12 and the Russian Iskander missile that has been used in the ongoing war with Ukraine.

This missile system's development commenced around 2015 and was significantly driven by the late General Bipin Rawat during his tenure as Chief of Army Staff.

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(With inputs from agencies)