Odisha: Phase-II Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) interceptor AD-1 missile underwent a successful maiden flight test from APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha, according to the Defence Research & Development Organization (DRDO). With the involvement of all BMD armament system components situated in various geographic regions, the flight test was conducted.
The AD-1 is a long-range interceptor missile that can intercept long-range ballistic missiles as well as aeroplanes in low exo- and endo-atmospheric environments. It has a two-stage solid engine for propulsion and a sophisticated control system, navigation, and guidance algorithm that were all developed domestically to precisely lead the vehicle to the objective.
Rajnath Singh, the minister of defence, expressed his congratulations to the DRDO and other teams for the productive flight test of the AD-1. He described it as a special kind of interceptor with cutting-edge technology only found in a select few countries worldwide. He exuded assurance that it will elevate the nation’s BMD capacity to the next level.