The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has authorized the creation of a new missile testing range in Nagayalanka, Andhra Pradesh. This initiative aims to enhance the country’s defense capabilities, particularly in the evaluation of tactical missile systems.
According to government sources, the facility will facilitate the testing of various missiles, including surface-to-air and anti-tank missiles, as well as other projects under the Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
During the CCS meeting held last week, several significant proposals for the armed forces were also approved. This includes the acquisition of 31 Predator drones from the United States and the construction of two nuclear submarines as part of Project ATV, which focuses on developing strategic submarines for the Indian Navy. Additionally, plans for constructing roads for military operations and enhancing space-based capabilities were also greenlit.
The CCS Also approved Phase III of the Space Based Surveillance (SBS) mission, aimed at enhancing land and maritime domain awareness for both civilian and military purposes, has been approved. The project is being managed by the National Security Council Secretariat in collaboration with the Defence Space Agency under the integrated headquarters of the Defence Ministry.
Although the Modi government has not officially announced the approval, sources suggest that the plan, cleared by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), involves the launch of at least 52 satellites in low Earth and geostationary orbits for surveillance. With a total cost of ₹26,968 crore, the proposal includes the construction and launch of 21 satellites by ISRO and the remaining 31 by private companies.
The DRDO is currently in the advanced stages of developing numerous weapon systems for the defense forces, including Very Short Range Air Defence Systems, man-portable anti-tank guided missiles, quick reaction surface-to-air missile systems, and vertically launched short-range air defense systems, among others in the tactical domain.
