Prithvi-II Missile

Defense Systems Full Specifications

Prithvi-II Missile: India’s Precision Short-Range Ballistic Weapon

The Prithvi-II stands as a cornerstone of India’s tactical ballistic missile arsenal, representing a significant achievement in indigenous defense technology. Developed as part of the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP), this single-stage, liquid-fueled surface-to-surface missile provides rapid, accurate strike options against high-value targets. Designed primarily for the Indian Air Force and later adopted by the Army under the Strategic Forces Command, it enhances India’s credible minimum deterrence posture in a complex regional security environment.

Manufacturer

The Prithvi-II was developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Production involves collaboration with Indian defense public sector undertakings. It draws on liquid propulsion expertise refined through extensive testing since the mid-1990s.

Speed and Range

The missile achieves supersonic speeds, reaching a peak velocity consistent with short-range ballistic trajectories (typically exceeding Mach 3+ during re-entry phases in similar systems). Its operational range extends up to 350 km with a 500 kg payload, offering flexibility for shorter distances with heavier loads up to 1,000 kg. It follows a ballistic trajectory with a reported peak altitude around 43 km in maximum range tests.

Cost/Price

Exact unit costs are not publicly disclosed by the Indian government, but estimates for Prithvi-series missiles place it in the range of approximately $1.5–2 million per unit based on historical production data and comparative analyses. This reflects the economics of liquid-fueled systems with mobile launch capabilities.

The Prithvi-II features robust countermeasures against anti-ballistic missile defenses through trajectory maneuvering. It uses a strap-down inertial navigation system with upgrades for improved accuracy, reported at around 50 m CEP or better in enhanced variants. It is nuclear-capable and can carry conventional high-explosive or fragmentation warheads. Launched from mobile transporter-erector-launchers (TELs), it offers high mobility and rapid deployment. Inducted in 2003, it has undergone numerous successful user trials, including night tests, validating its reliability.