Full List of India’s Missiles Arsenal – 2025
In this article, we’ll explore India’s missile systems, including surface-to-air missiles, Ballistic Missile Shield, Air to Air Missile, Air to Surface Missiles, Anti-Radiation Missiles, Surface to Surface Missiles, Anti-Ship Missiles, Torpedoes and Submarine Launched Ballistic Missiles which are important for our national security.
Surface-to-Air Missiles
Air defence systems are critical in modern warfare, particularly the conflicts in the Israel-Gaza and Ukraine wars, shown where aerial threats such as drones, missiles, and aircraft caused significant damage that too especially in Ukraine where Russian airstrikes rocked Ukrainian power infrastructure and other critical infrastructure. Advanced air defence systems can detect, track, and intercept threats, protecting key assets and civilian infrastructure. In India’s context, with the kind of volatile neighbourhood we have, air defence is indispensable for countering aerial incursions from China and Pakistan, especially with the increasing use of drones and stealth technologies. Here we will look at all the air defences in service with our armed forces.
Akash
The Akash missile system important crucial part of our armed forces air defense network, capable of targeting and neutralizing aerial threats like fighter jets and UAVs within a range of 25 km. With a high-explosive fragmentation warhead, it uses a phased array radar for command guidance, ensuring precision. Its deployment on mobile launchers provides flexibility and rapid response capabilities, making it crucial element for both the Indian Army and Air Force. Developed indigenously by DRDO to meet the requirement of Indian Armed Forces.
- Range: Up to 25 km
- Warhead: 60 kg high-explosive fragmentation
- Propulsion: Solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: Command guidance with phased array radar
- Launch Platforms: Mobile launchers
- Users: Indian Army, Indian Air Force
- Developed by: DRDO
Akash-NG (Under Development)
The Akash-NG is an advanced iteration of the Akash system under development, extending the range to 80 km and featuring a dual-pulse solid rocket motor for improved speed and manoeuvrability. It uses an active radar-homing guidance system, enhancing its capability to engage stealthier and more agile targets.
- Range: Up to 80 km
- Warhead: High-explosive fragmentation
- Propulsion: Dual-pulse solid rocket motor
- Guidance System: Active radar homing
- Launch Platforms: Mobile launchers
- Users: Planned for Indian Army, Indian Air Force
- Developed by: DRDO
Barak-1 (SR-SAM)
The Barak 1 is an Israeli-developed short-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) system used by Indian Naval vessels for point defense against a variety of aerial threats, including aircraft, anti-ship missiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Barack 1 has a vertical launching system (VLS) and utilizes command-to-line-of-sight (CLOS) radar guidance for engaging the targets within a range of approximately 12 kilometers.
- Range: 12 km
- Warhead: 22 kg high-explosive
- Propulsion: Solid rocket motor
- Guidance System: Command guidance
- Launch Platform: Warships
- Users: Indian Navy
- Developed by: IAI (Israel)
Barak-8 (MR-SAM)
The Barak-8 is a medium-range surface-to-air missile developed by DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries. It is designed to protect naval vessels as well as ground assets from aerial threats. Powered by a dual-pulse solid rocket motor and guided by an active radar seeker, it uses vertical launch systems on Indian Navy ships, for protecting the ships from aerial threats.
- Range: Up to 70-100 km
- Warhead: 60 kg fragmentation
- Propulsion: Dual-pulse solid rocket motor
- Guidance System: Active radar seeker
- Launch Platforms: Ship-based vertical launch systems, and ground-based launch system
- Users: Indian Navy, IAF and Indian Army
- Developed by: DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI)
S-400 Triumf
The S-400 Triumf is an advanced, mobile surface-to-air missile system developed by Russia, designed to detect, track, and engage a wide range of aerial threats, including aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and ballistic and cruise missiles. It has a maximum range of up to 400 kilometers and ability to simultaneously track and engage multiple targets.
- Range: Up to 400 km
- Warhead: 180 kg fragmentation
- Propulsion: Solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: Active radar homing
- Launch Platforms: Mobile launchers
- Users: Indian Air Force
- Developed by: Almaz-Antey (Russia)
Short Range Surface-to-Air Missile (SR-SAM)
The Short Range Surface-to-Air Missile (VL-SRSAM) is an advanced air defense system developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Designed to neutralize aerial threats such as aircraft and drones, the SRSAM uses a solid propellant rocket motor, a highly maneuverable flight control system, and an operational range of 80 km.
- Range: Up to 80 km
- Warhead: High-explosive fragmentation
- Propulsion: Solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: Active radar homing
- Launch Platforms: Mobile launchers
- Users: Indian Army, Indian Air Force
- Developed by: DRDO
Spyder
SPYDER (Surface-to-air PYthon and DERby) missile defense system is an advanced air defense system developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Israel Aerospace Industries. It is designed to intercept and destroy a variety of aerial threats, including aircraft, helicopters, drones, and precision-guided munitions. The system is capable of rapid deployment, making it a flexible and effective in different scenarios. Users of the SPYDER system include several countries, such as India, Singapore, and the Czech Republic.
- Range:
- SPYDER-SR (Short Range): 20 km
- SPYDER-MR (Medium Range): 50 km
- SPYDER-LR (Long Range): 100 km
- Warhead:
- Python-5: 11 kg
- Derby: 23 kg
- Propulsion:
- Python-5: Solid rocket motor
- Derby: Solid rocket motor
- Guidance System:
- Python-5: Infrared homing and electro-optical imaging
- Derby: Active radar homing
- Launch Platforms: Vehicle Mounted
- Users: Indian Air Force
- Developed by: Rafael Advanced Defense Systems
Igla (Man-Portable Air Defense System – MANPADS)
The Igla is a Russian-origin Man-Portable Air Defense System (MANPADS) designed to provide highly effective short-range air defense. Operated by a single individual, it targets low-flying aircraft, helicopters, and drones with precision using passive infrared homing guidance. The Igla-S variant, the latest in the series, has an operational range of up to 6 km. The system’s portability and ease of deployment make it a versatile and reliable choice for ground forces.
- Range: 5โ6 km
- Warhead: 1.27 kg high-explosive fragmentation
- Propulsion: Solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: Infrared homing
- Launch Platforms: Shoulder-fired
- Users: Indian Army, Indian Air Force, Indian Navy
- Developed by: KBM (Russia)
9K35 Strela-10
The 9K35 Strela-10, is a mobile, short-range surface-to-air missile system developed by the Soviet Union. It is designed to provide air defense for ground forces(usually the armoured columns and mechanised infantry) against low-flying aircraft and helicopters. The system utilizes optical/infrared guidance and is visually aimed. Mounted on a tracked vehicle, it offers mobility in different terrians and can be rapidly deployed. It carries four ready-to-launch missiles on the turret and has additional reloads inside the vehicle.
- Range: 5 km
- Warhead: 3.5 kg fragmentation warhead
- Propulsion: Solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: Infrared homing
- Launch Platforms: Tracked vehicle-mounted
- Users: Indian Army
- Developed by: KBM (Russia)
9K33 Osa
The 9K33 Osa is a mobile, short-range tactical surface-to-air missile system developed by the Soviet Union in the 1960s. Similar to Strela it is designed to provide air defence for ground forces against aircraft, helicopters, drones, and cruise missiles. The system is mounted on a six-wheeled amphibious vehicle, allowing it to operate in diverse terrains and conditions. The Osa features an integrated radar system for target acquisition and tracking, and it can engage targets at altitudes ranging from 25 meters to 5 kilometres. Its missiles are guided to their targets using radio commands. The Osa system has been used by Indian Army, making it a significant component of army air defence capabilities.
- Range: 1.5โ12 km
- Warhead: 16 kg fragmentation warhead
- Propulsion: Solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: Radio command guidance
- Launch Platforms: Vehicle-mounted
- Users: Indian Army
- Developed by: Tikhomirov Scientific Research Institute (Russia)
S-125 Pechora (SA-3 Goa)
The S-125 Pechora is a Soviet-era surface-to-air missile system designed to provide low to medium-altitude air defense. Developed in the 1960s, the Pechora uses two-stage, solid-fuel missiles with a range of up to 35 kilometers and an altitude coverage from 25 meters to 17km. It features a radar-guided system for target acquisition and tracking and can engage multiple targets simultaneously. The system is mobile, and mounted on tracked or wheeled vehicles.
- Range: 15โ35 km (depending on variant)
- Warhead: 60 kg fragmentation warhead
- Propulsion: Solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: Radar-guided
- Launch Platforms: Fixed and mobile platforms
- Users: Indian Air Force
- Developed by: Almaz-Antey (Russia)
Kub (SA-6 Gainful)
The Kub (SA-6 Gainful) is a Soviet-era, medium-range, surface-to-air missile (SAM) system. Developed in the 1950s and 60s, the system includes a 3M9 missile mounted on tracked vehicles for mobility, with radar systems for target acquisition and tracking. The Kub’s operational range is around 25 km, and it is capable of engaging aircraft at altitudes of up to 12 km. Despite being an older system, it has seen upgrades and remains in service of Indian Army for its effectiveness against low-flying targets.
- Range: 4โ25 km
- Warhead: 56 kg fragmentation warhead
- Propulsion: Solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: Radar-guided
- Launch Platforms: Tracked vehicle-mounted
- Users: Indian Army
- Developed by: Fakel Design Bureau (Russia)
Advanced Air Defence (AAD)
The Advanced Air Defence (AAD) missile is a important component in India’s Ballistic Missile Defence Programme, designed to intercept and destroy incoming ballistic missiles at lower altitudes. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the AAD missile is part of a two-tiered system that includes the Prithvi Air Defence (PAD) missile for high-altitude interception. The AAD missile has been tested successfully and demonstrated its capability to intercept targets in multiple times, ensuring a robust shield against ballistic missiles. This system along with PAD forms the backbone of India’s strategic air defense capabilities.
- Range: 200 km (endo-atmospheric interception)
- Warhead: Hit-to-kill kinetic energy or fragmentation warhead
- Propulsion: Solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: INS with active radar homing
- Launch Platforms: Ground-based interceptor system
- Users: Indian Armed Forces (planned deployment)
- Developed by: DRDO
Prithvi Air Defence (PAD)
The Prithvi Air Defence (PAD) missile, also known as the Pradyumna Ballistic Missile Interceptor, is an important part of India’s Ballistic Missile Defence Programme. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the PAD is designed for exo-atmospheric interception of incoming ballistic missiles at high altitudes. It was successfully tested in 2006, making India one of the country to develop an anti-ballistic missile system similar to the United States, Russia, and Israel. The Prithvi Air Defence (PAD) missile uses the Prithvi Defence Vehicle (PDV) as its interceptor. The PDV is a two-stage missile with a solid-fueled first stage and a liquid-fueled second stage. The PAD missile forms the upper tier of India’s two-layered defense system, working in tandem with the Advanced Air Defence (AAD) missile to provide comprehensive protection against ballistic missile threats.
- Range: Up to 2,000 km (exo-atmospheric interception)
- Warhead: Hit-to-kill kinetic energy or fragmentation warhead
- Propulsion: Two-stage (liquid + solid fuel)
- Guidance System: INS with active radar homing
- Launch Platforms: Ground-based interceptor system
- Users: Indian Armed Forces (planned deployment)
- Developed by: DRDO
Air-to-Air Missiles
Modern air combat has evolved with the rise of beyond-visual-range (BVR) engagements, betterment in missile and their guidance systems, which highlights the importance of advanced air-to-air missiles like Meteor and Astra. For India, equipping fighter jets with best AAMs ensures in maintaining edge in aerial combat against our adversaries. Indian Air Force and Indian Navy uses wide range of air to air missile and here list of those missiles.
Astra Mk-I
Developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), these beyond-visual-range (BVR) missiles with high maneuverability, and active radar homing for precise target engagement. With a range of up to 110 km in its latest variants, it is capable of engaging enemy aircraft in both head-on and tail-chase scenarios.
- Range: Up to 110 km
- Warhead: 15 kg high-explosive fragmentation
- Propulsion: Solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: Active radar homing
- Launch Platforms: Sukhoi Su-30MKI, HAL Tejas, MiG-29
- Users: Indian Air Force
- Developed by: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
Astra Mk-II (Under Development)
- Range: Up to 160 km
- Warhead: High-explosive fragmentation
- Propulsion: Dual-pulse solid rocket motor
- Guidance System: Active radar homing
- Launch Platforms: Planned for integration on various fighter aircraft
- Users: Planned for Indian Air Force
- Developed by: DRDO
Python-5
Python 5 is an advanced air-to-air missile developed by Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems. It features an infrared homing seeker, high maneuverability, and a lock-on-after-launch capability, allowing engagement of targets effectively.
- Range: Up to 20 km
- Warhead: 11 kg high-explosive fragmentation
- Propulsion: Solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: Imaging infrared homing
- Launch Platforms: HAL Tejas
- Users: Indian Air Force
- Developed by: Rafael Advanced Defense Systems (Israel)
Derby
Also developed by Rafael, Derby is a medium-range active radar-guided air-to-air missile, with beyond-visual-range capabilities with a fire-and-forget system.
- Range: Up to 50 km
- Warhead: 23 kg high-explosive fragmentation
- Propulsion: Solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: Active radar homing
- Launch Platforms: HAL Tejas
- Users: Indian Air Force, Indian Navy
- Developed by: Rafael Advanced Defense Systems (Israel)
R-73
The R-73 is a short-range infrared-guided air-to-air missile developed by the Soviet Union. Known for its off-boresight capability and compatibility with helmet-mounted sight systems, it can engage targets in close combat scenarios with high manoeuvrability, making it dangerous in close combat dogfights.
- Range: Up to 30 km
- Warhead: 7.4 kg high-explosive fragmentation
- Propulsion: Solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: Infrared homing
- Launch Platforms: MiG-21, MiG-29, Su-30MKI
- Users: Indian Air Force
- Developed by: Vympel NPO (Russia)
R-77
The R-77 is a modern Russian active radar-guided BVRAAM, often compared to the AIM-120 AMRAAM. It features a unique lattice fin design for high agility and a range of approximately 80 km.
- Range: Up to 80 km
- Warhead: 22.5 kg high-explosive fragmentation
- Propulsion: Solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: Active radar homing
- Launch Platforms: MiG-29, Su-30MKI
- Users: Indian Air Force
- Developed by: Vympel NPO (Russia)
MICA
The MICA is a French air-to-air missile developed by MBDA, available in infrared and active radar-guided variants. It is compatible with various platforms like Rafale and Mirage 2000 and successful test firings have already been conducted from SU30MKI aircraft
- Range: Up to 60 km
- Warhead: 12 kg high-explosive fragmentation
- Propulsion: Solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: Available in two variants: active radar homing (MICA RF) and infrared homing (MICA IR)
- Launch Platforms: Mirage 2000, Rafale, SU30MKI(IR Guided)
- Users: Indian Air Force
- Developed by: MBDA (France)
Meteor
BVRAAM developed by MBDA, featuring a unique ramjet propulsion system for sustained thrust and long-range capability of over 150 km. With high-speed and high no-escape-zone, it establishes the superiority of IAF in BVR combat over our adversaries.
- Range: Over 150 km
- Warhead: High-explosive fragmentation
- Propulsion: Throttleable ducted rocket (ramjet)
- Guidance System: Active radar homing
- Launch Platforms: Rafale
- Users: Indian Air Force
- Developed by: MBDA (Europe)
Air-to-Surface Missiles
Air-to-surface missiles (ASMs) provide long-range precision strike capabilities against ground-based targets, including bunkers, airfields, and logistics hubs. We have missiles like Brahmos, Nirbhay, and SCALP which can be fired from aircraft like SU30MKI, Jaguar and Rafale. Furthermore, Brahmos NG is in the developmental stage which can be fired by Tejas aircraft.
BrahMos-A
The BrahMos air-launched cruise missile is a supersonic weapon jointly developed by India and Russia. Designed for precision strikes against ground and sea targets, it can travel at speeds of Mach 2.8 to 3.0 with a range of up to 450 km in its latest variants. The missile’s size allows integration only with fighter jets like the Sukhoi Su-30MKI.
- Range: Up to 400 km
- Warhead: 200โ300 kg conventional semi-armor-piercing
- Propulsion: Ramjet engine with solid-fuel booster
- Guidance System: Inertial navigation system (INS) with GPS and active radar homing
- Launch Platforms: Sukhoi Su-30MKI
- Users: Indian Air Force
- Developed by: BrahMos Aerospace (India-Russia Joint Venture)
Nirbhay
Nirbhay is Indiaโs indigenous subsonic long-range cruise missile developed by DRDO. Capable of striking targets up to 1,000 km, and designed to carry conventional or nuclear warheads.
- Range: Up to 1,000 km
- Warhead: Nuclear or conventional
- Propulsion: Turbofan engine
- Guidance System: INS with GPS and terrain contour matching
- Launch Platforms: Planned for various aircraft
- Users: Planned for Indian Air Force and Indian Army
- Developed by: DRDO
SCALP (Storm Shadow) Missile
The SCALP is a long-range, air-launched cruise missile developed by MBDA, primarily used by European forces. With a range of over 500 km, it features stealth technology and a precision guidance system for high-value targets in deep strike missions. It is compatible with IAF’s Rafale.
- Range: Approximately 560 km
- Warhead: 450 kg BROACH (Bomb Royal Ordnance Augmented CHarge) with a tandem design for penetrating hardened targets
- Propulsion: Turbofan engine
- Guidance System: GPS-aided inertial navigation with infrared homing for terminal accuracy
- Launch Platform: Rafale
- Users: Indian Air Force
- Developed by: MBDA (European missile developer consortium)
Rampage Missile
Rampage is an air-launched stand-off precision strike missile developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and IMI Systems. Designed for penetrating heavily fortified targets, it uses GPS guidance and inertial navigation to deliver precision strikes at ranges exceeding 250 km.
- Range: 150-250 km
- Warhead: Penetration warhead optimized for hard targets
- Propulsion: Solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: GPS-aided navigation and inertial navigation system
- Launch Platform: Fighter jets such as Su-30MKI, Mig29, Jaguar and Indian Navy’s MiG29K
- Users: IAF and Navy
- Developed by: Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and Israel Military Industries (IMI)
AGM-114 Hellfire
The AGM-114 Hellfire is an air-to-ground, laser-guided missile primarily developed for anti-armor purposes. It has evolved into a multi-mission weapon capable of precision strikes against various target types, including structures and bunkers. The Hellfire can be launched from multiple platforms, including helicopters, drones, and ground vehicles, and has been extensively used in modern conflicts.
- Range: 8โ11 km
- Warhead: 8โ9 kg high-explosive anti-tank (varies by variant)
- Propulsion: Solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: Laser-guided or radar-guided
- Launch Platform: MH-60R Seahawk helicopters, IAF Apaches
- Users: Indian Navy
- Developed by: Lockheed Martin
Anti-Radiation Missile
Anti-radiation missiles important for suppressing enemy air defenses (SEAD), which is crucial for air dominance. These missiles targets the radar and communication systems, paving the way for futher airstrikes(DEAD).
Rudram-I
- Range: Up to 200 km
- Warhead: High-explosive pre-fragmented warhead
- Propulsion: Solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: INS-GPS navigation with Passive Homing Head for radiation tracking
- Launch Platforms: Sukhoi Su-30MKI
- Users: Indian Air Force
- Developed by: DRDO
Rudram-II (Under Development)
- Range: Up to 300 km
- Warhead: High-explosive pre-fragmented warhead
- Propulsion: Solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: INS-GPS navigation with Passive Homing Head for radiation tracking
- Launch Platforms: Sukhoi Su-30MKI(Test already conducted)
- Users: Indian Air Force
- Developed by: DRDO
Surface to Surface Missile
Surface-to-surface missiles (SSMs) are essential for precision strikes on enemy installations, logistics, and other critical infrastructure. Lessons from Ukraine shown the strategic importance of ballistic and cruise missiles in disrupting supply chains and targeting critical infrastructure. For us, SSMs serve as a deterrent against hostile neighbors and a means to neutralize threats.
Prithvi-I
The Prithvi-1 is a tactical surface-to-surface ballistic missile developed by India, with a range of approximately 150 km. It is designed for quick deployment and is primarily used by the Indian Army for battlefield support. Equipped with an inertial navigation system (INS) for midcourse guidance and terminal accuracy, capable of being operated through a mobile command-and-control platform for battlefield use.
- Range: 150 km
- Warhead: 1,000 kg (conventional or nuclear)
- Propulsion: Single-stage liquid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: Inertial Navigation System (INS)
- Launch Platforms: Mobile launchers
- Users: Indian Army
- Developed by: DRDO
Prithvi-II
An advanced version of the Prithvi series, the Prithvi-2 has an extended range of about 250 km. It features improved accuracy and can carry both conventional and nuclear warheads, making it useful for strategic military operations. Features an improved INS and GPS-enabled midcourse guidance for enhanced accuracy. Its command system integrates with Indiaโs mobile launcher platforms for quick deployment.
- Range: 250 km
- Warhead: 500โ1,000 kg (conventional or nuclear)
- Propulsion: Single-stage liquid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: INS
- Launch Platforms: Mobile launchers
- Users: Indian Air Force
- Developed by: DRDO
Prithvi-III (Dhanush)
A naval variant with a range of 350 km, deployable from ships for precision strikes against land and sea targets. Uses advanced inertial and GPS-aided guidance for precise targeting. Operated from naval platforms with real-time command inputs for dynamic mission adjustments(Say if target changed).
- Range: 350 km
- Warhead: 500โ1,000 kg (conventional or nuclear)
- Propulsion: Single-stage liquid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: INS
- Launch Platforms: Ship-based launchers
- Users: Indian Navy
- Developed by: DRDO
Agni-I
The Agni-1 is an intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) with a range of approximately 700-1200 km. It is a key component of India’s strategic deterrent. Uses INS coupled with an onboard computer for midcourse corrections, ensuring high precision. It operates within Indiaโs strategic command-and-control network, ensuring secure communication during deployment.
- Range: 700โ1,200 km
- Warhead: 1,000 kg (conventional or nuclear)
- Propulsion: Single-stage solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: INS with GPS
- Launch Platforms: Mobile road and rail launchers
- Users: Indian Army
- Developed by: DRDO
Agni-II
A medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM) with a range of 2,000โ3,000 km, designed for strategic deterrence enhancing India’s strike capability against regional adversaries. Features INS with ring-laser gyros for better midcourse guidance and real-time updates from ground-based systems. Fully integrated with Indiaโs nuclear command authority.
- Range: 2,000โ3,000 km
- Warhead: 1,000 kg (conventional or nuclear)
- Propulsion: Two-stage solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: INS with GPS
- Launch Platforms: Mobile road and rail launchers
- Users: Indian Army
- Developed by: DRDO
Agni-III
An intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) with a range of 3,000โ5,000 km, equipped with advanced navigation for precision targeting useful for hitting targets deep within enemy territory. Employs advanced INS supported by a redundant micro-navigation system for high accuracy. Commanded through Indiaโs strategic missile control infrastructure.
- Range: 3,000โ5,000 km
- Warhead: 1,500 kg (conventional or nuclear)
- Propulsion: Two-stage solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: INS with GPS
- Launch Platforms: Mobile road launchers
- Users: Indian Army
- Developed by: DRDO
Agni-IV
An IRBM with a range of 4,000 km, featuring better accuracy and re-entry technology for enhanced survivability. Equipped with a hybrid INS system supported by a highly accurate ring-laser gyro and advanced onboard software for precise targeting. Its canisterized launch system enables quick and secure deployment under Indiaโs centralized command structure.
- Range: 4,000โ5,000 km
- Warhead: 1,000 kg (conventional or nuclear)
- Propulsion: Two-stage solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: INS with GPS and ring-laser gyroscope
- Launch Platforms: Mobile road launchers
- Users: Indian Army
- Developed by: DRDO
Agni-V
An intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) with a range of 5,500 km, recently tested with MIRV technology, the Agni-5 can carry multiple warheads and strike different targets simultaneously, significantly enhancing India’s nuclear deterrent capability. Utilizes a highly accurate INS supported by a redundant satellite-based navigation system for improved midcourse and terminal guidance. It integrates with advanced command-and-control system, including secure satellite communications for remote operation.
- Range: Over 5,500 km
- Warhead: 1,500 kg (conventional or nuclear)
- Propulsion: Three-stage solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: INS with GPS and ring-laser gyroscope
- Launch Platforms: Mobile road and rail launchers
- Users: Indian Army
- Developed by: DRDO
Agni-P (Prime)
A next-generation medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM) with a range of 1,000โ2,000 km, featuring advanced lightweight materials and improved accuracy. Incorporates advanced INS with satellite-aided corrections for high accuracy and manoeuvrability.
- Range: 1,000โ2,000 km
- Warhead: Conventional or nuclear
- Propulsion: Two-stage solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: INS with GPS
- Launch Platforms: Mobile launchers
- Users: Indian Armed Forces (future deployment)
- Developed by: DRDO
Shaurya
A canister-launched hypersonic short-range ballistic missile (SRBM) with a range of 700โ1,900 km, capable of evading radar and delivering nuclear or conventional warheads with precision. Employs INS coupled with GPS and onboard computers for dynamic midcourse corrections and terminal accuracy.
- Range: Up to 1,900 km
- Warhead: Nuclear or conventional
- Propulsion: Solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: INS with GPS
- Launch Platforms: Mobile launchers
- Users: Indian Army
- Developed by: DRDO
Prahar
A tactical SRBM with a range of 150 km, designed for quick deployment and high accuracy in battlefield scenarios. Equipped with a micro-inertial navigation system for highly accurate short-range targeting. Operated via mobile command units for battlefield adaptability and rapid response.
- Range: 150 km
- Warhead: 200 kg conventional warhead
- Propulsion: Single-stage solid rocket motor
- Guidance System: INS + GPS
- Launch Platforms: Road-mobile launcher
- Users: Indian Army
- Developed by: DRDO
Pralay
A surface-to-surface tactical missile with a range of 150โ500 km, featuring advanced navigation systems for precision strikes in conventional warfare. Uses a robust INS and GPS-aided system for precision strikes in tactical scenarios.
- Range: 150โ500 km
- Warhead: 350โ700 kg conventional warhead
- Propulsion: Solid rocket motor
- Guidance System: INS + GPS with maneuverable reentry vehicle
- Launch Platforms: Road-mobile launcher
- Users: Indian Army and Air Force
- Developed by: DRDO
Anti-Ship Missiles
BrahMos (Anti-Ship Variant)
A supersonic cruise missile developed by India and Russia, capable of targeting naval vessels with precision at ranges up to 450 km. It travels at Mach 2.8โ3.0 and features advanced sea-skimming technology. It has a state-of-the-art inertial navigation system with a GPS/GLONASS-aided guidance system for pinpoint accuracy. It uses an active radar seeker for terminal guidance.
- Range: 290-450 km
- Warhead: 200-300 kg high-explosive or semi-armor-piercing
- Propulsion: Ramjet engine with a solid rocket booster
- Guidance System: Inertial navigation with GPS and active radar homing
- Launch Platform: Ships, submarines, and aircraft
- Users: Indian Navy, Indian Army, Indian Air Force
- Developed by: DRDO and NPOM (Russia)
Harpoon
A U.S.-made subsonic anti-ship missile with a range of 280 km, used by almost all platforms of US Navy and it can be fired from Indian Navy’s P8I aircraft.
- Range: 124-280 km
- Warhead: 221 kg high-explosive
- Propulsion: Turbojet engine
- Guidance System: GPS with active radar homing
- Launch Platform: Boeing P-8I Poseidon
- Users: Indian Navy
- Developed by: Boeing (USA)
Exocet
The Exocet is a French-built anti-ship missile known for its sea-skimming flight profile, making it difficult to detect and intercept. It has been used in conflicts, like Falklands War. The missile can be launched from surface ships, submarines, aircraft, and coastal batteries. Kalvari class subs of Indian Navy has been integrated with Exocet missile.
- Range: 40-200 km
- Warhead: 165 kg high-explosive
- Propulsion: Solid rocket motor or turbojet
- Guidance System: Inertial and active radar homing
- Launch Platform: Kalvari Class submarines
- Users: Indian Navy
- Developed by: MBDA (France)
Kh-35 Uran (AS-20 Kayak)
The Kh-35 Uran is a Russian subsonic anti-ship missile. It features a sea-skimming flight path and can be compared to the U.S. Harpoon missile due to its similar design and capabilities.
- Range: 130-300 km
- Warhead: 145 kg high-explosive
- Propulsion: Turbojet engine
- Guidance System: Inertial navigation with terminal radar homing
- Launch Platform: MiG-29K
- Users: Indian Navy
- Developed by: Tactical Missiles Corporation (Russia)
Naval Anti-Ship Missile Short Range (NASM-SR)
NASM-SR is Indiaโs indigenous helicopter-launched anti-ship missile. It is the first indigenous air launched anti-ship cruise missile developed for the Indian Navy.
- Range: Up to 55 km
- Warhead: High-explosive fragmentation warhead (weight undisclosed)
- Propulsion: Solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: Imaging infrared (IIR) seeker for terminal guidance
- Launch Platforms: Rotary-wing platforms (e.g., Sea King, MH-60R helicopters)
- Users: Planned for the Indian Navy
- Developed by: DRDO
Sea Eagle
The Sea Eagle is a British air-launched anti-ship missile developed in the late 1970’s. The missile was integrated into Indian Navy’s Sea Harrier aircraft(Retired) and Westland Sea King helicopters.
- Range: 110 km
- Warhead: 230 kg semi-armor-piercing high-explosive
- Propulsion: Turbojet engine
- Guidance System: Active radar homing
- Launch Platform: Sea King helicopters
- Users: Indian Navy
- Developed by: BAE systems
Also Read, Full List Of Indiaโs Air Defence Systems
Torpedoes
Varunastra
The Varunastra is an advanced heavyweight torpedo developed by India’s Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL) for the Indian Navy. Designed for anti-submarine warfare (ASW), it can be launched from both ships and submarines. The torpedo features a GPS-based locating aid, an advanced autonomous guidance system, and has a range of up to 40 kilometers.
- Range: 40 km
- Warhead: 250 kg high-explosive
- Propulsion: Electric propulsion with a propeller
- Guidance System: Wire-guided with active/passive sonar
- Launch Platform: Ships and submarines
- Users: Indian Navy
- Developed by: DRDO
SeaHake Mod 4
The SeaHake Mod 4 is a German-made, fiber-optic wire-guided heavyweight torpedo produced by Atlas Elektronik. It has a range exceeding 50 kilometers and speeds over 50 knots. The torpedo is equipped with a conformal array sonar for wide-angle target detection and is designed to operate effectively in both shallow and deep waters.
- Range: 50-140 km
- Warhead: 250 kg high-explosive
- Propulsion: Electric propulsion
- Guidance System: Wire-guided with advanced sonar
- Launch Platform: Submarines
- Users: Indian Navy
- Developed by: Atlas Elektronik (Germany)
MK-54 Torpedo
The MK-54 is a lightweight anti-submarine torpedo. Designed for deployment from surface ships, helicopters, and fixed-wing aircraft, the MK-54 is effective against modern diesel-electric and nuclear submarines.
- Range: 9 km
- Warhead: 44 kg high-explosive
- Propulsion: Electrically driven
- Guidance System: Active/passive acoustic homing
- Launch Platform: P-8I Poseidon and MH-60R Seahawk
- Users: Indian Navy
- Developed by: Raytheon Technologies
APR-3E Torpedo
The APR-3E is a Russian airborne light anti-submarine acoustic homing torpedo designed to engage submarines at depths up to 800 meters and speeds over 43 knots. It can be deployed from various fixed-wing and rotary-wing platforms, including the Tu-142, Il-38, and Ka-28.
- Range: 2.5โ3 km
- Warhead: 74 kg high-explosive
- Propulsion: Rocket-propelled
- Guidance System: Acoustic homing
- Launch Platform: Kamov Ka 28
- Users: Indian Navy
- Developed by: Tactical Missiles Corporation (Russia)
SMART Torpedo (Supersonic Missile Assisted Release of Torpedo)
The SMART torpedo is a hybrid system combining the range of a missile with the underwater targeting precision of a torpedo. After being launched from a ship, the system uses a missile to carry the torpedo to a pre-determined target zone. Once near the target area, the torpedo is released into the water, where it activates its guidance system to locate and destroy enemy submarines.
- Type: Anti-submarine warfare (ASW) weapon system
- Range: Over 650 km (missile range)
- Warhead: Lightweight torpedo (e.g., TAL or Mark 54 torpedo), equipped with an explosive charge for submarine engagement
- Propulsion: Solid-fuel rocket motor (for missile propulsion) and torpedo propulsion system (after release)
- Guidance System: Missile: GPS-aided inertial navigation system; Torpedo: Acoustic homing with onboard sensors
- Launch Platforms: Ship-based vertical launch systems
- Users: Indian Navy
- Developed by: DRDO
Also Read, Service Rifles of Indian Army: 1947-Present
Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missiles (SLBMs)
The development of submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) is critical in establishing a credible nuclear triad, which comprises land-based, air-based, and sea-based nuclear delivery systems. The deployment of SLBMs, such as the K-15 and K-4, enhances India’s second-strike capability, ensuring that even if land and air assets are compromised, we can retaliate effectively from submarines. This strategic deterrent is vital for maintaining regional stability and deterring potential adversaries. India is one of the few nations that has nuclear triad.
K-15 Sagarika (SLBM – Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missile)
The K-15 Sagarika is part of Indiaโs nuclear triad, enabling submarine-based second-strike capability. Its compact design allows launch from underwater silos, ensuring strategic deterrence.
- Range: 750โ1,500 km (classified as a short- to medium-range ballistic missile)
- Warhead: 1,000 kg conventional or nuclear warhead
- Propulsion: Two-stage solid-fuel rocket motor
- Guidance System: Inertial navigation with GPS augmentation for higher accuracy
- Launch Platforms: Arihant-class nuclear submarines
- Users: Indian Navy
- Developed by: DRDO
K-4
The K-4 is a nuclear-capable submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) with a range of approximately 3,500 kilometres. Designed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), it arms the Indian Navy’s Arihant-class nuclear submarines, enhancing the country’s sea-based nuclear deterrent. The missile’s solid-fuel propulsion and intermediate-range provide strategic ability, to target adversaries from secure positions within the Bay of Bengal or in other contested waters. Recent tests, including a successful launch from the INS Arighaat in December 2024, demonstrated the K-4’s operational readiness, showing significant advancement in India’s nuclear triad capabilities.
- Range: 3,500 km
- Warhead: 2,000 kg nuclear or conventional
- Propulsion: Solid rocket motor
- Guidance System: Inertial navigation with GPS
- Launch Platform: Arihant-class submarines
- Users: Indian Navy
- Developed by: DRDO
Our missile development programs across various categoriesโincluding air defence, surface-to-surface, anti-tank, anti-ship, and naval missile systemsโhave shown our intent and efforts to enhance our defence capabilities and being self-reliant. Our research agencies are now focusing on building their own radar-guided and infrared-guided systems, and propulsion systems. By continuing to develop and operationalize these missile systems, we are ensuring our forces are well-equipped to respond to any security challenges, safeguarding our national interests with some serious firepow