Masterstroke by Modi government as India expands danger zone for upcoming missile trial in…, it can travel…
New Delhi: In a major development, the Modi government has extended a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) for a likely missile test scheduled for 20-21 August 2025. According to the reports, the updated notification expands the danger zone to approximately 2,530 km into the Indian Ocean Region, originating from launch sites along the Odisha coast, including Balasore and Abdul Kalam Island.
It is important to note that this revision was on August 12 and marks an increase from previous estimates, ensuring enhanced safety for aviation and maritime traffic during the trials.
Here are some of the key details:
- NOTAMs are issued to ensure the safety of civilian air and maritime traffic by marking areas to avoid during live-fire trials.
- Defence analysts suggest that, given the extended range, this may involve testing advanced systems such as the Agni-6 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) or a hypersonic variant.
- It is important to note that the move aligns with the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) ongoing efforts to enhance missile capabilities.
- India’s push for advanced missile capabilities is a central part of its defence modernisation drive and the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India) initiative.
- In past few years, India has successful tests of long-range systems like the Agni-V — with ranges exceeding 5,000 km
- This latest test gains significance in the context of evolving strategic dynamics in Asia, particularly with the growing missile capabilities of China and Pakistan.
- By boosting range and performance, India seeks to reinforce its deterrence posture, enhance second-strike capability, and expand its operational reach throughout the Indo-Pacific.
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