PRALAY MISSILE
- The Pralay missile, an indigenously developed short-range, quasi-ballistic missile, will make its first appearance at the Republic Day Parade in 2025.
- This marks a significant moment for India’s indigenous defense technology.
- This missile showcases India’s growing self-reliance in defense and strategic capabilities.
- The inclusion of Pralay signals a leap in strengthening India’s deterrent posture.
KEY FEATURES
- Range: 150-500 km.
- Payload Capacity: 500-1,000 kg, capable of carrying conventional warheads.
- Guidance: Equipped with advanced guidance systems for high precision, offering a Circular Error Probable (CEP) of less than 10 meters.
- Speed: Reaches terminal speeds of Mach 6.1.
- Mobility: Can be launched from a mobile launcher, enhancing flexibility in deployment, especially along sensitive borders like the Line of Control (LoC) and Line of Actual Control (LAC).
- Capabilities: Can target radar installations, command centers, airstrips, and more. Its ability to alter its path mid-flight adds to its versatility.
HISTORICAL CONTEXT OF PRALAY MISSILE
- Development: The Pralay missile is part of India’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its indigenous defense production.
- It was developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), drawing from technologies developed in the Prithvi Defense Vehicle.
- Strategic Deployment: It is designed for use along critical borders, including LAC and LoC, enhancing India’s capability to respond swiftly to regional threats.
OTHER DISPLAYS DURING REPUBLIC DAY
- Theme: The parade will blend military strength with cultural heritage, emphasizing India’s unity and diversity.
- Cultural Significance:
- 2 special tableaus will commemorate 75 years of the Indian Constitution.
- 5,000 folk and tribal artists will perform, representing 45 tribal cultures, including Indonesian traditions.
- International Representation: An Indonesian contingent of 160 marchers and 190 band members will participate, enhancing bilateral relations.
- Military Display:
- Key military assets include BrahMos missiles, multi-barrel rocket launchers, T-90 tanks, and Nag missiles.
- The Pralay missile will be highlighted for its strategic significance.
- Participation:
- 18 marching contingents, 15 bands, and 31 tableaus will be featured.
- The parade will be attended by over 1 lakh spectators, including 10,000 special guests.
- Marching contingents will represent various ministries and services, reflecting India’s diverse defense and cultural fabric.
TRI SERVICE REPRESENTATION
- Tri-Service Contingent: The parade will feature a joint representation from India’s Army, Navy, and Air Force, symbolizing defense cohesion.
- Navy Tableau: For the first time, the Indian Navy will present its own dedicated tableau.
- International Contingents: The Indonesian contingent’s participation will symbolize strengthening ties between India and Southeast Asia, adding a global dimension to the parade.
ABSENCE OF ALH & TEJAS
- ALH Grounded: The Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) will be absent due to ongoing safety checks after a recent crash.
- The helicopter is still undergoing necessary evaluations, making it unavailable for the parade.
- Tejas Fighter Jet: While other advanced aircraft will be displayed, Tejas, India’s indigenous fighter jet, will also not be part of the flypast this year.
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