India successfully conducted the first-ever test launch of Agni Prime missile from a train, joining few nations with rail-based missile systems. With a striking range of 2,000 kilometers, this achievement marks a significant advancement in the country’s strategic defence capabilities.

The incident took place in Chandipur district, in northern India's Odisha, on September 24.

Visuals show that Agni Prime missile is seen successfully launched from a mobile launchpad on a railway track.

According to reports, for the first time in India’s history, the Agni Prime missile was successfully launched from a specially designed train-based platform. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced this achievement on Thursday through his official social media, highlighting its importance for the nation’s defence. He confirmed that the test involved firing the medium-range Agni Prime missile from a rail-based mobile launcher system. This next-generation missile, engineered for ranges up to 2,000 kilometers, incorporates several advanced technological features. Defence analysts believe that this rail-mobile launch capability marks a significant milestone in enhancing India’s strategic deterrence.

The Defence Minister emphasized that this test is the country’s first involving a rail-based canisterised launcher capable of operating without prior preparation. This system allows movement across the nation’s railway network, offering high mobility, stealth, and reduced reaction time for missile deployment. Such capability strengthens operational flexibility and strategic readiness.

Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, Strategic Forces Command (SFC), and the Armed Forces for the success of this test. He noted that this achievement places India among a select group of nations capable of deploying missiles through mobile rail-based systems, an advanced strategic capability.

Agni Prime is a cutting-edge, nuclear-capable missile and an upgraded version of the Agni series. It is a two-stage, canister-launched missile with an operational range between 1,000 and 2,000 kilometers. Designed to be lighter than earlier Agni missiles, it enhances transportability and responsiveness while delivering high precision. This development demonstrates India’s growing expertise in modern defence technology and strengthens its deterrence posture.

This successful test not only showcases India’s technological advancement but also reinforces its position as a leader in strategic defence capabilities, with the flexibility to operate advanced missile systems under varying conditions.