Nuclear capable SSM 'Shourya' test fired from ITR

Balasore, Nov 12 (UNI) India today successfully test fired a new state-of-the-art surface-to-surface ''Shourya'' missile from the Integrated Test Range at Chandipur-on-sea about 15 kms from here.

The missile, with a range of 600 kms, was test fired from the launching complex number III of the ITR at 1125 hours in presence of scientists from the Defence and Research Development Organisation (DRDO).

The DRDO sources claimed that flight-test of 'Shourya',a part of the ongoing technology development work undertaken by the DRDO, met all the mission objectives.

Sources said it was for the first time the missile, having nuclear capabilities which could carry a payload of one tonne and part of K-15 programme, was test fired from land using the launching complex of the ITR.

The Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missile (SLBM)had already been tested successfully in the past from Pontoon (replica of a submarine) placed inside sea off the Andhra Pradesh coast and also from Orissa coast.

The ITR authority had issued a cautionary notice asking the mariners to keep away from the area in the Bay of Bengal in view of the test.

The Balasore district administration also, as a precautionary measure,temporarily evacuated residents and livestock from villages within a radius of three kms from the ITR.

ITR sources said the objective of today's test fire was to assess the full range performance of the missile from the mobile ground launcher and other parameters.

Villagers residing in Jaydevkasba Pahi, Sahajinagar Pahi, Bhimpurpahi, Khadu Pahi and Kusmuli Pahi were evacuated to temporary centres and paid a total compensation of Rs 6.5 lakh prior to the test fire of the missile from the ITR.

In New Delhi, the Defence Ministry said, 'Shourya', due to its high manoeuvrability, was less vulnerable to available anti-missile defence systems.

Also, with its unique simplicity of operation and maintenance, the missile can be easily handled, transported and stored within the canister for longer shelf life.

Today's developmental flight trial of 'Shourya' missile system is a part of Defence Research and Development Organisation's ongoing technology development work, the ministry added.

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