India Successfully Launches Agni-Prime Missile from Rail-Based Mobile Launcher
India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully tested the Agni-Prime ballistic missile from a specially designed rail-based mobile launcher on September 24. The intermediate-range missile was fired under a complete operational scenario in collaboration with India’s Strategic Forces Command. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh confirmed the success by calling it a “first-of-its-kind launch”.
Agni-Prime is a two-stage solid-fuel medium-range ballistic missile. It can strike targets up to about 2,000 km away and carries a payload of roughly 1,000–3,000 kg. The missile is carried in a sealed canister that allows rapid launch from road or rail vehicles. The rail launcher itself is a modified train car with clamshell doors that open at launch. The Agni-Prime system enhances the mobility and concealment capabilities of India’s missile forces.
Officials said the test launch was a complete success. The DRDO and Defence Ministry reported that ground stations tracked the missile’s trajectory and “it was a textbook launch meeting all mission objectives.” A DRDO statement called the road-cum-rail launcher configuration a “game changer” and a force multiplier for India’s strategic forces. Defence sources noted this test follows a series of Agni-P trials; the road-mobile version of Agni-Prime had already been inducted into service after earlier successful flight tests.
This launch has important strategic significance. India enhances the survivability of its missiles by making them more difficult to detect and target by utilizing the existing railway network. Mobility on rails gives the Strategic Forces Command more launch options and flexibility. Rail-launch opens the door to futuristic rail-based launch systems that can enhance the survivability, mobility, and rapid deployment of strategic assets. The road and rail versions together significantly boost India’s second-strike capability and deterrence posture. Defence Minister Singh added that India now joins a select group of nations, along with Russia and China, that have developed canisterized missile launch systems from moving rail platforms.
The September 2025 event was a test conducted under realistic conditions, and it met all the intended goals. India has paved the way to induct this capability into service by proving the rail-launch concept. This successful launch marks a major milestone for India’s missile program.