Odisha: Amid downpour, ballistic missile test-fired from ITR at Chandipur
An indigenously developed surface-to-surface short-range ballistic missile was test-fired from the Odisha coast today amid heavy rains, official sources said. The sophisticated missile was test launched from Launch Pad-3 of the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur, near Balasore at about 1:35 pm. The missile, developed by the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), was launched from a mobile launcher. Here's more.
About missile: It's a quick reaction, all-weather, all-terrain weapon system
"It's a solid-fueled short-range missile fitted with an inertial navigation system," the sources said. It's a quick reaction, all-weather, all-terrain, highly accurate battlefield support tactical weapon system. Various tracking radars, as well as electro-optic equipment, are engaged to track and monitor the missile's trajectory.
4,494 people residing within 2km of launch site temporarily evacuated
Prior to the missile's test launch, 4,494 people residing within 2 km radius of the Launch Pad No. 3 at Chandipur were temporarily evacuated to nearby shelters with compensation in the morning, a district revenue official said. They returned to their houses after getting clearance from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) authorities soon after the test was over, the official added.
