Integrated Guided Missile Development Program

July 27, 2023

By DR. B.P. SINGH

Integrated Guided Missile Development Program

The Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP) was an ambitious and successful missile development initiative undertaken by the Indian government. The program was launched in 1983 with the primary objective of achieving self-reliance in the field of missile technology and developing a comprehensive range of missiles for India’s defense needs.

The IGMDP was led by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and involved the collaboration of various organizations and industries in India’s defense sector. The program aimed to develop five different types of missiles, each serving a specific purpose:

1. Prithvi: Prithvi is a short-range surface-to-surface ballistic missile designed for battlefield support, with both liquid and solid-fueled variants. It has different versions with varying ranges and payloads.

2. Agni: Agni is a series of intermediate to intercontinental range ballistic missiles (IRBMs and ICBMs). These missiles are capable of delivering nuclear warheads and constitute India’s strategic nuclear deterrent.

3. Trishul: Trishul was a short-range, low-level surface-to-air missile designed for the Indian Air Force and the Indian Navy to defend against aerial threats.

4. Akash: Akash is a medium-range surface-to-air missile system designed to protect vital areas and vulnerable points from aerial attacks.

5. Nag: Nag is an anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) designed to be fired from various platforms, including helicopters and ground-based launchers, to engage and destroy enemy armored vehicles.

Out of the five missiles, the Prithvi and Agni missile systems saw the most significant success and deployment in India’s armed forces. The Agni series, in particular, has evolved over time, with Agni-I, II, III, IV, and V being developed with increasing ranges and capabilities.

The success of the IGMDP was a significant milestone for India’s defense technology and its efforts to become self-sufficient in developing advanced missile systems. It showcased the country’s capabilities in indigenous missile technology and bolstered its defense capabilities.