India Carries Out Successful Training Launch of Agni-1 Ballistic Missile
A successful training launch of a medium-range ballistic missile, Agni-1, was carried out by the Strategic Forces Command from APJ Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha.
The missile is a proven system, capable of striking targets with a very high degree of precision. The user training launch successfully validated all operational and technical parameters of the missile.
In December 2022, India had successfully test-fired nuclear-capable ballistic missile Agni-V that can strike targets at ranges up to 5,000 km.
The Agni 1 to 4 missiles have ranges from 700 km to 3,500 km and they have already been deployed.
Jun 01, 2023
Ummalaneni to Head DRDO Missiles and Strategic Systems
Distinguished scientist and Director, RCI, Ummalaneni Raja Babu was appointed the Director General (missiles & strategic systems), DRDO, Hyderabad.
He replaced B.H.V.S. Narayana Murthy following the latter's superannuation.
Babu, a graduate in mechanical engineering from Andhra University, obtained his Master's from IIT Kharagpur and MBA from JNTU.
He started his career with the Indian Air Force in 1988 and joined DRDO in 1995. In his 35-year aerospace career, he has worked on aircraft, helicopters and was a key member in the development of many missile systems.
It was under his leadership that 'Mission Shakti', India's first anti-satellite missile test (A-SAT) was demonstrated successfully.
Babu is a recipient of several prestigious awards, including the 'Path-breaking research & outstanding technology development' award, Agni award, DRDO Scientist of the Year and Vigyan Pratibha Samman awards.