• India successfully test-fired short range ballistic missiles Prithvi-II and Agni-I from an integrated test range off the Odisha coast on July 18.

• The test-firing of the missiles validated all operational and technical parameters.

• The Prithvi-II missile has a range of around 350 kms and it is capable of carrying a payload of up to 500 kgs. It can carry both conventional as well as nuclear warheads.

• The Agni-I missile has a range of 700-900 kms and it can carry a payload of 1,000 kgs.

• Both Prithvi-II and Agni-I missiles have been an integral part of India’s nuclear deterrence.

• These tests were conducted under the aegis of the Strategic Forces Command.

(The author is a trainer for Civil Services aspirants.)