This annotated chronology is based on the data sources that follow each entry. Public sources often provide conflicting information on classified military programs. In some cases we are unable to resolve these discrepancies, in others we have deliberately refrained from doing so to highlight the potential influence of false or misleading information as it appeared over time. In many cases, we are unable to independently verify claims. Hence in reviewing this chronology, readers should take into account the credibility of the sources employed here. Inclusion in this chronology does not necessarily indicate that a particular development is of direct or indirect proliferation significance. Some entries provide international or domestic context for technological development and national policymaking. Moreover, some entries may refer to developments with positive consequences for nonproliferation.
2000
The Indian defense ministry's annual report expresses concern over continuing "Sino-Pakistan and Pakistan-North Korea" defense cooperation, which encompass transfer of "nuclear technology, assistance in the missile development program, and the transfer of conventional military equipment to Pakistan..." Pointing to advances in China's nuclear deterrent the report says that "China has further improved her ICBM [intercontinental ballistic missile] capability by test-firing DF-31 and laboratory testing DF-41 missiles. The presence of Chinese SSBNs [nuclear ballistic missile submarines] in the Indian Ocean may soon be a reality."
—Ministry of Defence, Annual Report: 1999-2000,<http://mod.nic.in/reports/welcome.html>, pp. 3, 4, 5, 9.
Early 2000
India's national security council approves a $3 billion plan to create a nuclear command and control system. The plan proposes to allocate $1 billion for "modernizing and integrating the command, control, communications, and intelligence systems of the Army, Navy, and Air Force through 2002." Funds will also be used to build command centers to link the political leadership, the military service chiefs, nuclear forces, and various intelligence and surveillance assets. One such center will be built in Delhi; a second center will be built outside the range of Pakistan's present ballistic missile force. An additional eight command centers will be built; some of these will be regional commands, others will focus on bomber command, ballistic missile forces, and surveillance. The plan also proposes to invest in satellite communications and intelligence gathering systems, air-defense, and air-to-ground communications facilities, airborne reconnaissance systems, and electronic countermeasures. [Note: According to media reports, the satellite communications equipment will be procured from Israel and France.]
—Vivek Raghuvanshi, "Top Indian Defense Official Urges Better Nuclear Weapon Controls for Military," Defense News (Springfield, VA), 2-8 July 2001, p. 19; Vivek Raghuvanshi, "India Chats 15-Year, $95 Billion Path," Defense News (Springfield, VA), 11-17 June 2001, p. 46.
4 January 2000
In an address to the 87th Indian Science Congress in Pune (Maharashtra), the principal scientific advisor to the government of India, Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, says that India is trying to design an anti-ballistic missile system on the lines of the US program. Kalam says that India can "also pursue an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) program if adequate funds are made available for the project." He discloses that the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is developing a supersonic aircraft that will combine the critical technologies used in missiles and aircraft. In the event of a nuclear attack on India, this aircraft will be activated automatically to carry out retaliatory attacks.
—"India trying to design ABM system on US lines: Kalam," Hindustan Times (New Delhi), 4 January 2000, <http://www.hindustantimes.com>.
January 2000
The Indian Navy modifies the Offshore Patrol Vessel, INS Subhadra, at the naval dockyard in Mumbai to transport and flight-test the Dhanush ballistic missile. The helicopter deck is strengthened and a hydraulically stabilized rail-mounted platform and erector are installed. The ship's helicopter hangar is modified to house two missiles. A portable console to feed the missile pre-launch guidance parameters is also installed on the ship.
—Sandeep Unnithan, "Navy to Acquire Its Own Nuclear Missile – Dhanush," Indian Express (Mumbai), 10 January 2000, <http://www.expressindia.com>.
20 January 2000
India delays tests of the Dhanush and Agni ballistic missiles. The missiles were originally scheduled to be tested on 26 January 2000. According to Indian government sources, the Dhanush test has been postponed due to a technical snag in the "control system." The new version of the Agni will test a new mid-air guidance system, which involves a satellite-based global positioning system (GPS). According to Indian defense sources, the GPS will receive satellite-based feeds of its geographic position in mid-air. An on-board computer will carry out the necessary corrections to steer the weapon to its target. However, these sources have also warned against relying on the US GPS system during "critical occasions." [Note: In theory, the US GPS system could be shut off to deny a country access to positional information. In practice, however, such an option is becoming increasingly dubious given the growing commercial dependence on GPS.]
—"Test-firing of Agni, Dhanush missiles put on hold," Hindu (Chennai), 20 January 2000, <http://www.thehindu.com>.
22 January 2000
According to Dr. A. Sivathanu Pillai, Chief Controller R&D, Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO), "technologies developed under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP) made our [India's] missiles globally competitive in their performance and built a strong foundation for future technologies and systems developments...we have today operational Agni II and Prithvi. We have mastered propulsion technology, guidance and control and introduced innovative software packages, algorithms, and new devices." In the case of the Prithvi, India has "mastered liquid-propulsion technology, supersonic maneuverable trajectory, multiple-field interchangeable warheads, and launch capabilities from mobile platforms." India has also developed computational fluid dynamics, super computers, carbon-carbon technology, advanced composites, special guidance systems, and software for the Agni program. Indian scientists have also developed a "fire-and-forget" guidance system by mounting an infrared seeker on the NAG anti-tank missile, making it the first third-generation anti-tank missile in the world. Similarly, the "ramjet technology" and guidance system developed for the Akash surface-to-air missile (SAM) will lead to "several futuristic systems including hypersonic re-usable missiles."
—"Fire-and-forget system for 'Nag' tested," Times of India (New Delhi), 22 January 2000, <http://www.timesofindia.com>.
February 2000
Due to US President Bill Clinton's visit to New Delhi in March 2000, the Dhanush test is delayed until April 2000.
—"A New Surface-to-Surface Missile to be Test Fired in March," Indian Express (Mumbai), 2 February 2000, <http://www.expressindia.com>.
2 February 2000
Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) officials say that India will test the nuclear-capable Dhanush in March 2000. Once the missile has been tested successfully, it will be deployed on board offshore patrol vessels. Missiles on other Navy destroyers such as the INS Delhi and INS Mysore could also be armed with nuclear weapons.
—"Dhanush missile to be test fired in March," PTI (New Delhi), 2 February 2000, in BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 4 February 2000, Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.
5 February 2001
Israeli radio announces that India and Israel have signed a $270 million contract for an initial order to purchase Barak ship point defense missile system, which is designed to defeat anti-ship missile threats to naval vessels. A single unit of the Barak system costs $21.5 million. The Barak will initially be retrofitted on the Indian Navy's aircraft carrier Viraat. At a later stage, the Barak systems will be incorporated in each of the Type 16A frigates currently under construction. The Type 16A class frigates were supposed to be fitted with the indigenous Trishul surface-to-air missile (SAM); however, delays in the development of the Trishul have resulted in the Indian Navy opting for the Barak. According to media reports, the Barak will also replace the Soviet-designed SA-N-1 SAMs on Indian Navy's Rajput-class destroyers (Soviet Kashin-class design). [Note: The Barak is a 10km-range interceptor missile armed with a "22kg blast-fragmentation warhead" and an "advanced proximity fuse"; it is designed to destroy incoming anti-ship missiles. The Barak is fitted onto an "eight-tube vertical launch system." The missile uses an "Elta X/Ka band fire control radar and an Elbit fire control system capable of automatic operation and able to engage two targets simultaneously." The Barak missile and its launcher have been developed by Israel's Rafael industries.]
—"India buys Barak naval SAM," Jane's Missiles & Rockets (Coulsdon, Surrey), April 2001, p. 11.
16 February 2000
The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) tests an indigenously developed 7.5 ton-thrust cryogenic engine developed for the upper stage of the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV). The test is carried out at the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) in Mahendragiri (Tamil Nadu). Although the engine was to be fired for 30 seconds, a hydrogen leak led to the turning off of ignition after 15 seconds. An ISRO official says, "the exact reason for the leak can be found out only after analyzing the data that was obtained during the first 15 seconds...whether it is a major or minor problem will be known after analyzing the data which will take two days." Although the engine was supposed to have been fired for 30 seconds, during actual flight, it will power the GSLV for 730 seconds. According to an Indian official, "we [ISRO] will have to qualify the engine for twice that period or 1,400 seconds before certifying it for actual flight." Despite the setback, ISRO sources say that the test-firing of the cryogenic engine had several accomplishments. They include fabrication, assembly, and integration of the complete cryogenic engine, validation and commissioning of the test stand, chill-down trials of the engine and associated system, production of cryogenic propellants to required specifications, validation of appropriate safety procedures, and the collection of data during the 15 seconds of testing.
—"Cryogenic engine–ISRO reaches a milestone," Indian Express (Mumbai), 17 February 2000, <http://www.expressindia.com>; "Rocket launch stopped due to hydrogen leak," Deccan Herald (Bangalore), 19 February 2000, <http://www.deccanherald.com>.
March 2000
The Indian cabinet approves the purchase of seven Barak ship point defense missile systems from Israel in a deal valued at 5.8 billion rupees.
—Sandeep Unnithan, "Barak Missiles: Off the Mark?" India Today (New Delhi), 26 March 2001, <http://www.india-today.com>.
8 March 2000
According to Indian foreign ministry spokesperson R. S. Jassal, Chinese assistance to Pakistan's nuclear and missile program is threatening regional stability. Jassal says that India conveyed its concerns to China during the two-day Sino-Indian security dialogue held in Beijing on 6-7 March 2000.
—"India conveys concern to China," Dawn (Karachi), 9 March 2000, <http://www.dawn.com>.
11 April 2000
India flight-tests the 250km-range Dhanush from the INS Subhadra off the Interim Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur (Orissa) at 1:35 p.m.; the test is unsuccessful. The missile breaks up within four seconds of launch.
—"Dhanush variant for land targets sought," Hindustan Times (New Delhi), 20 April 2000, <http://www.hindustantimes.com>; Rahul Bedi, "Missile Test is 'Partial Success', says India," Jane's Defence Weekly (Coulsdon, Surrey), 19 April 2000, p. 14.
20 April 2000
The Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) is reported to be developing a 500km-range version of the Dhanush. According to Indian government sources, the acquisition of a 500km-range missile would fit into the Navy's plans to acquire a ship- or submarine-based stand-off land-attack capability. The 500km-range Dhanush will use the same propulsion fuel as used in the 250km-range version. Indian news media sources report that although Dhanush is still in the experimental stage, a debate on cruise vs. ballistic missiles has revived within the top echelons of the Indian Navy.
—"Dhanush variant for land targets sought," Hindustan Times (New Delhi), 20 April 2000, <http://www.hindustantimes.com>.
26 April 2000
The Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) tests the Nishant unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), which is designed to perform discreet aerial reconnaissance of battlefields, including target acquisition. According to DRDO sources, the Nishant is "unique in its category." It is capable of accurate navigation to designated target points and can fly on extended missions lasting for several hours with an electro-optical and photographic payload.
—"Nishant test-flown," Hindu (Chennai), 27 April 2000, <http://www.thehindu.com>.
16 June 2000
India conducts 17th test of the Prithvi from the Interim Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur (Orissa).
—"Prithvi Test-Fire Successful," Hindu (Chennai), 17 June 2000, <http://www.thehindu.com>.
19 July 2000
India's Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Sushil Kumar, commissions the INS Sindhushastra in St. Petersburg; the Kilo-class submarine is armed with the supersonic Club-S anti-ship missiles.
—Atul Aneja, "New missile-firing sub being commissioned," Hindu (Chennai), 19 July 2000, <http://www.thehindu.com>.
11 August 2000
According to Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) Director Dr. V. K. Aatre, the Dhanush missile will be flight-tested after modifications sometime "this year end." Indian defense scientists are working on rectifying the problems Dhanush faced during its 11 April 2000 flight. DRDO sources say that the test will most probably occur in October 2000 and a ship is being readied for it.
—Josy Joseph, "Dhanush may be test-fired this year-end," Rediff on the Net, 11 August 2000, <http://www.rediff.com>.
18 August 2000
India's Defense Minister George Fernandes informs parliament that India has reached the point where the Agni ballistic missile could be made operational. According to Fernandes, "India's IRBM [intermediate-range ballistic missile] program is progressing satisfactorily."
—"Longer range Agni now Operational: Fernandes," Times of India (New Delhi), 18 August 2000, <http://www.timesofindia.com>.
29 August 2000
According to a senior Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) scientist, the Agni missile is ready for serial production and deployment. Although he refuses to specify the number of missiles that will be manufactured, he admits that two variants of the missile–Agni I (1,500km) and Agni II (2,500km)–are now fully operational. Both versions can carry nuclear warheads and are designed for rapid deployment. The scientist claims that at present, India has 10 Agni I missiles and two prototypes of the Agni II, and that DRDO's missile research labs could produce 18 missiles annually in collaboration with Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) in Hyderabad (Andhra Pradesh). The unit cost for Agni I and II is $5 and $8 million, respectively. The NDA government has increased funding for India's missile programs from $500 million in 1999 to $800 million in the year 2000.
—"Agni ready for serial production and deployment," Rediff on the Net, 29 August 2000, <http://www.rediff.com>.
September 2000
Indian government allegedly decides to proceed with the production of 300 Prithvi ballistic missiles for all three branches of India's armed forces at a cost of approximately $200 million. Senior Indian defense ministry officials say that the 150 missiles will be produced for the Army, 100 for the Navy, and 50 for the Air Force. All missiles will be produced at Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) in Hyderabad (Andhra Pradesh), which will invest $100 million to expand production. Indian scientists claim that the Naval and Air Force versions of the Prithvi will go into production in April and June 2001, respectively.
—Vivek Raghuvanshi, "India Moves Prithvi Missile Toward Serial Production," Defense News (Springfield, VA), 11 September 2000, p. 11.
17 September 2000
According to Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, principal scientific advisor to the government of India, India is on the threshold of becoming an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) power. According to Kalam, "today we have the capability to design and develop any type of missile including the ICBM. Now, it's for the country to decide." He also discounts speculation that the ICBM will be a derivative of the Indian Space Research Organization's (ISRO) Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV).
—Vishal Thapar, "ICBMs any day, says Kalam," Hindustan Times (New Delhi), 18 September 2000, <http://www.hindustantimes.com>.
2 October 2000
Russian defense officials indicate that the Indian Navy has begun taking delivery of the 3M-54E-class of anti-ship cruise missiles. A Kilo-class submarine fitted with the missiles set sail for India in late August 2000 and two successful missile tests were conducted in the Baltic Sea earlier in June 2000. Officials from the Novator Experimental Machine Bureau have also disclosed that flight-tests of a vertically launched frigate-version of the 3M-54 for the Indian Navy will commence in 2001. Novator has also offered India a subsonic variant of the 3M-54 missile. [Note: Speculation persists that India might try and purchase the 3M-14 variant of the 3M-54. The 3M-14 is a subsonic variant of the 3M-54E; it is equipped with a seeker, which gives it a land attack capability.]
—Douglas Barrie, "India Begins to Receive Russian Missiles for Subs to Equip Latest Kilo-Class Vessels," Defense News (Springfield, VA), 23 October 2000, p. 60.
5 October 2000
India and Russia agree to a news blackout on sensitive information exchanges in the areas of defense and nuclear cooperation. Under the proposed agreement, Russia and India will appoint watchdogs to enforce compliance with the new agreement. The need for tighter secrecy is linked to the growing defense cooperation as India makes a transition from purchasing Russian defense technology to co-developing new weapon systems with Russian defense entities. According to Russian daily Vremya Novostei, the Russian defense industry is negotiating "far more intriguing contracts with India."
—Vladimir Radyuhin, "Secrecy on defense, nuclear deals," Hindu (Chennai), 6 October 2000, <http://www.thehindu.com>.
8 October 2000
The Indian Air Force's Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall Anil Yashwant Tipnis, says that his organization has finalized its doctrine for responding to a nuclear threat. According to Tipnis, "India is committed to a no-first-use policy for nuclear weapons. The only option then is to develop a second-strike capability."
—"IAF draws up nuclear strategy," Times of India (New Delhi), 8 October 2000, <http://www.timesofindia.com>.
9 October 2000
Addressing a seminar on air power sponsored by the Institute of Defense Studies & Analyses (New Delhi), defense minister George Fernandes says that India's military modernization program is "running parallel" to that of China and in the coming years the defense budget could be hiked to 3% of the GDP.
—"Military modernisation programme 'running parallel' with China," Hindu (Chennai), 10 October 2000, <http://www.thehindu.com>.
22 October 2000
The Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) says that it is "fine-tuning" a supersonic missile obtained from Russia to carry nuclear warheads. A senior official says that the "missile is in the final stages of development and could be handed over to the Navy soon." Russian scientists have met with DRDO officials during the past several months for technical consultations. Indian officials refuse to confirm if the missile has an Indian name, but an Indian news media report suggests that the top-secret missile is called Brahmos. Indian officials claim that the new missile can deliver a 500kg-paylooad over a 300km-range and that it is a "supersonic weapon that can't be shot down. It requires a lot of electronic countermeasures to ensure protection against it." The missile is likely to be fitted on the Indian Navy's Project 17 (Stealth) warship and will also be modified for deployments on aircraft and submarines. The Indian Navy has plans to acquire three Project 17 warships and the first ship is expected to join the Navy in 2007.
— Srinjoy Chowdhury "India Reworks Russian Missile to Make It N-Capable," Statesman (Calcutta), 21 October 2000, <http://www.thestatesman.net/>; Srinivas Laxman, "Building of stealth warship begins," Times of India (New Delhi), 19 December 2000, <http://www.timesofindia.com>.
2 November 2000
The Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) conducts a successful test of the Lakshya unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) from Interim Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur (Orissa). [Note: Lakshya was developed as an unmanned target drone, but speculation persists that it may be employed as a weapons-carrying cruise missile or UAV.]
—"Lakshya test-fired," Hindu (Chennai), 2 November 2000, <http://www.thehindu.com>.
December 2000
The defense ministry informs the parliament's Standing Committee on Defense that there will be "considerable delay" in the induction of the Akash and Trishul surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems into the armed forces.
—"LCA, Akash, Trishul facing slippages," Hindu (Chennai), 18 December 2001, <http://www.thehindu.com>.
January 2001
A US Department of Defense report on global proliferation trends states, "India probably has a small pile of nuclear weapon components and could assemble and deploy a few nuclear weapons within a few days to a week. The most likely delivery platforms are fighter-bomber aircraft. New Delhi is also developing ballistic missiles that will be capable of delivering a nuclear payload in the future...India has development and production infrastructures for both solid- and liquid-fuel missiles. By striving to achieve independence from foreign suppliers, India may be able to avoid restrictions imposed by the MTCR [Missile Technology Control Regime]. Nevertheless, India's ballistic missile programs have benefited from the acquisition of foreign equipment and technology, which India has continued to seek, primarily from Russia."
In the section on Indian ballistic missiles, the report claims, "An Indian submarine-launched missile, called the Sagarika, also is under development with Russian assistance. Its intended platform is the 'Advanced Technology Vessel' nuclear submarine." Commenting on India's cruise missile inventories and capabilities, the report says, "India possesses ship-launched and airborne short-range anti-ship cruise missiles and a variety of short-range air-launched tactical missiles, which are potential means of delivery for NBC [nuclear, biological, and chemical] weapons. All were purchased from foreign sources, including Russia and the United Kingdom. In the future, India may try to purchase more modern anti-ship cruise missiles, or try to develop the missiles themselves. However, funding priorities for such efforts will be well below that for ballistic missiles." The report also notes that Libya has successfully obtained ballistic missile-related goods and technologies from Indian and Serbian companies.
—Office of the Secretary of Defense, "Proliferation: Threat and Response," US Department of Defense, January 2001.
2 January 2001
The Indian Air Force, in an internal document–Vision 2020–advocates the creation of a nuclear air command that would wield a "first-strike capability." The Air Force plan was presented to Prime Minister Vajpayee in November 2000. According to Rakesh Dhingra, an official spokesperson for the Air Force, the document contains details of future service plans, including the nuclear air command; but specific details of the plan are classified and cannot be made public. According to an Indian Air Force official, however, the document claims that the Air Force is best suited to run India's nuclear war machine and needs more money, aircraft, missiles, electronic warfare equipment, and communications equipment. It also lists the number of aircraft, missiles, and other assets needed to have a complete system for nuclear deterrence, as well as their management, location, and maintenance.
—Mohammed Ahmedullah, "Indian Air Force Advocates First Strike Capability," Defense Week (Washington, DC), 2 January 2001, in Lexis-Nexis, 16 January 2001, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.
4 January 2001
A Milan anti-tank missile is triggered accidentally during a demonstration before defense secretary Yogendra Narain. The accident at the Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) plant in Hyderabad leaves one person dead and five others injured. Indian experts speculate that the accident was most likely a systems failure and occurred because the standard operating procedure was probably not being followed.
—S. Nagesh Kumar, "BDL: a prime missile production agency," Hindu (Chennai), 5 January 2001, <http://www.thehindu.com>; T. Lalith Singh, "Doubts over BDL safety norms," Hindu (Chennai), 9 January 2001, <http://www.thehindu.com>.
17 January 2001
India conducts second test of the Agni II from the Interim Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur (Orissa) in its "final operational configuration." The Agni II is a mobile, two-stage, all solid-fuel missile with a range of "about 2,000km" and is capable of carrying a payload weight of one ton. The flight is monitored with shore and ship instrumentation facilities, which are networked in real-time. According to the Agni's program director R.N. Agarwal, the flight test results indicated that mission objectives were met successfully. Indian defense officials also claim that the missile, which uses an inertial navigation system and global positioning system (GPS), landed less than 100m from its target. Indian Defense Minister George Fernandes hints that the Agni will be inducted into the armed forces soon.
—"Test Flight of Agni II," Press Information Bureau, Government of India, 17 January 2001, <http://pib.myiris.com/>; "Fernandes: Agni Missiles Will Soon Be Inducted Into Indian Defence Set Up," All India Radio (New Delhi), 18 January 2001, in FBIS Document SAP20010118000073, 18 February 2001; Rahul Bedi, "India's second successful test of Agni II missile," Jane's Defence Weekly (Coulsdon, Surrey), 24 January 2001, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 24 January 2001, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.
18 January 2001
An Indian newspaper reports that a draft nuclear doctrine prepared by the Chiefs of Staff Committee has recommended that India's nuclear forces be headed by a three-star general and that nuclear command and control rest with the civilian leadership. The draft also proposes that the nuclear force commander be responsible for India's land-, sea-, and air-based nuclear forces. The draft nuclear doctrine has been under consideration by the Cabinet Committee on Security for several months. Similarly, the Task Force on Higher Defense Management chaired by Arun Singh has also recommended that India's nuclear forces be placed under the proposed Chief of Defense Staff (CDS), who will be on par with the three service chiefs, and be the "single-point military advisor" to the civilian leadership. However, there are reports of differences between the Army, Navy, and Air Force over the custody and command and control arrangements over India's nuclear deterrent. The Army and Navy favor the creation of the post of CDS, while the Air Force is opposed to it. The Air Force's view is that whereas it is already a nuclear force, the Army was never meant to be a nuclear force, while the Navy neither has the platforms nor delivery systems to be a nuclear force.
—"Report Says Stage set for Command Structure of India's Nuclear Force," Hindustan Times (New Delhi), 18 January 2001, in FBIS Document SAP20010118000019, 18 January 2001.
19 January 2001
Despite the successful 17 January test of the Agni II, Indian Army and Air Force request at least four more user-trials, before the missile enters serial production. Reports suggest that the Air Force and Army have an immediate requirement for 20 Agni II ballistic missiles and might operate them jointly.
—Vivek Raghuvanshi, "As Arms Race in Asia Heats Up, India Tests New Ballistic Missile," Defense News (Springfield, VA), 29 January 2001, p. 17.
24 January 2001
The Bangalore-based Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) announces the successful trial of the indigenously developed PTAE-7 jet engine. The PTAE-7 has been developed by the Engine and Test Bed Research and Design Centre, Engine Division, HAL. This is the first turbo jet engine developed in India; it will be used to power the Lakshya pilotless target aircraft (PTA), developed by Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE). The Lakshya PTA is used for ground-air, air-air, and ship-air missile target practice. It is commanded from the ground by telemetry and can be recovered by a parachute, both in land and water. The PTA is provided with two targets on a 1.5km cable, and in the event of an emergency, auto recovery is possible. The Lakshya's maximum flight time is 50 minutes and it has a maximum life of 10 recoveries. [Note: PTAE-7 is "a single-shaft, lightweight, low-cost, short-life engine. It is comprised of a four-stage transonic axial compressor, a single-stage turbine, an annular flow combustion chamber, and 16 fuel flow burners...develops a thrust of 380kg.f at International Standard Atmosphere (ISA) sea level static conditions with specific fuel consumption of 1.15kg./kg.f/hr. It has a length of 1,270mm, and a maximum diameter of 330mm, and weighs 65kg." The engine is designed with material and features that protect it against seawater corrosion to enable reuse after recovery from the sea. Two engines were successfully tested three times in December 2000 at the Interim Test Range (ITR) (Orissa). Each time the engine was recovered from the sea, refurbished and re-run on the ground.]
—"PTAE-7 jet engine trial successful," Hindu (Chennai), 24 January 2001, <http://www.thehindu.com>.
25 January 2001
Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) Director Dr. V. K. Aatre announces that, "the operational configuration of Agni II has been proven. It will be inducted sometime this year." The induction sequence and procedure have already been worked out. Aatre confirms that the Agni will carry nuclear warheads.
—"India to Introduce Nuclear-Capable Missile Soon," New York Times, 25 January 25, 2001, <http://www.nytimes.com>; "Agni induction by year-end," Hindustan Times (New Delhi), 26 January 2001, <http://www.hindustantimes.com>; "Agni-II now ready for induction," Hindu (Chennai), 26 January 2001, <http://www.thehindu.com>.
26 January 2001
Dr. Aatre announces that the Lakshya pilotless target aircraft (PTA) has been inducted in the Air Force. The Naval version will be ready by end of 2001, while the Army version will be developed by 2002. The PTA will be fitted with an indigenous engine in a couple of years.
— "Agni-II now ready for induction," Hindu (Chennai), 26 January 2001, <http://www.thehindu.com>.
2 February 2001
The Nishant unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is successfully test-flown at the Yelahanka Air Force base in Bangalore (Karnataka). The scientific advisor to India's defense minister Dr. V. K. Aatre says, "we hope to induct it soon. It has to undergo several trials before its induction."
—"Nishant finally in the air," Times of India (New Delhi), 2 February 2001, <http://www.timesofindia.com>.
7 February 2001
CIA Director George Tenet testifies before the US Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. Tenet tells committee members that "Russian state-run defense and nuclear industries are still strapped for funds, and Moscow looks to them to acquire badly needed foreign exchange through exports...Russian entities last year [2000] continued to supply a variety of ballistic missile-related goods and technical know-how to countries such as...India..." He warns, "....the missile and WMD proliferation problem continues to change in ways that make it harder to monitor and control, increasing the risk of substantial surprise. Among these developments are greater proficiency in the use of denial and deception and growing availability of dual-use technologies–not just for missiles...there is also great potential of 'secondary proliferation' from maturing state-sponsored programs such as those in...India. Add to this group the private companies, scientists, and engineers in Russia, China, and India who may be increasing their involvement in these activities, taking advantage of weak or unenforceable national export controls and the growing availability of technologies. These trends...have accelerated over the past year."
—Statement by Director of Central Intelligence George J. Tenet before the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence on the "Worldwide Threat 2001: National Security in a Changing World," 7 February 2001, <http://www.cia.gov/>.
8 February 2001
According to Indian defense sources, the Indian Navy will soon receive the Barak missile-defense system from Israel in a deal valued at $300 million. The Navy placed an order for the Barak system for its Brahmaputra-class destroyers after the Trishul, a similar system being developed by Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO), was delayed.
—"Indian Navy to 'Soon' Receive Israeli Missile Defense System Worth $300 Million," Economic Times (New Delhi), 8 February 2001,in FBIS Document SAP20010208000066, 8 February 2001.
8 February 2001
India is developing the Agni-III, the next in a series of long-range missiles. According to Dr. V.K. Aatre, scientific advisor to India's defense minister, "Agni-III is being planned and will have a better range and capability. I cannot disclose when it will be test-fired." However, Indian defense ministry sources say that the range of the new missile will exceed 5,000km. Aatre also discloses that the Electronic Research & Development Establishment (ERDE) has succeeded in integrating the Rajendra phased-array radar with the Akash surface-to-air missile (SAM). However, some "technical glitches" remain and the system will be inducted as soon as these problems are resolved. The system will replace the SA-6 SAM, which are in service with the Indian armed forces. The new radar will also be integrated with the S-300V air defense system, which is designed to counter aircraft as well as ballistic missiles. According to Indian defense sources the Rajendra is similar to the 30N6 Flap-Lid B engagement radar used in the S-300 anti-ballistic missile system.
—"India Developing Improved, Long-Range Agni III Missile," Asian Age (New Delhi), 8 February 2001, pp. 1, 2; in FBIS Document SAP20010208000044, 8 February 2001.
8 February 2001
India's scientific advisor to the defense minister, Dr. V.K. Aatre, delivers a lecture at the Aero India international seminar and discloses that the Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) has established a silicon foundry in Bangalore (Karnataka) to manufacture VLSI chips using 0.8-micron technology. A 486-equivalent RISC processor has been developed and a signal-processor will be ready soon. DRDO has also set up a gallium-arsenide foundry in Hyderabad (Andhra Pradesh).
—"Nag, Trishul to be inducted in a year," Hindu (Chennai), 9 February 2001, <http://www.thehindu.com>.
9 February 2001
Russian Air Chief General Anatoly Kornukov says that Russia is preparing to sign the lease of four Tu-22M3 long-range bombers armed with Kh-22 cruise missiles to India. The deal has been under negotiation between Russia and India since 1998. Earlier, the Yeltsin government put it on hold fearing "unwanted political consequences" from the United States. However, the Putin government has decided to proceed with the lease. Russia considers Kh-22 cruise missiles armed with conventional warheads sub-strategic weapons. However, the United States considers them strategic weapons. [Note: The Kh-22 is a "short-range, air-launched, liquid propellant, single warhead, air-to-surface missile." The Kh-22 is believed to have been designed by the Tupolev and Mikoyan (OKB 155) design bureaus and is produced at the Kharkov plant. The Kh-22 is now supported by Russia's Raduga NPO. The Kh-22 is "11.7m long, has a body diameter of 1.0m, a wingspan of 2.99m, and weighs 6,800kg. Guidance in mid-course is inertial. One version has no terminal guidance, one has a passive radar homing seeker, and a third version has an active radar seeker for terminal guidance." The missile can be armed with a nuclear or 1,000kg conventional high-explosive warhead. When released at high-altitude, the Kh-22 can achieve ranges of up to 400km.]
—"Russia to lease long-range bombers to India," Hindustan Times (New Delhi), 9 February 2001, <http://www.hindustantimes.com>; Duncan Lennox ed., "AS-4 'Kitchen' (Kh-22 Burya)," Jane's Strategic Weapons Systems, (Coulsdon, Surrey: Jane's Information Group, 1997).
22 February 2001
Defense Minister George Fernandes informs parliament that limited production of the Agni II surface-to-surface missile (SSM) has begun and it will be inducted in 2001-2002. Test flights have also been planned for the Lakshya pilotless target aircraft (PTA), which has been inducted in the Air Force. User trials for the Nishant unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) will begin later in February 2001 and production, induction, and operationalization will commence after completion of the trials.
—"Agni-II to be inducted by 2001-02: Fernandes," Hindustan Times (New Delhi), 22 February 2001, <http://www.hindustantimes.com>.
22 February 2001
According to the CIA, "India continues to rely on foreign assistance for key missile and dual-use technologies, where it still lacks engineering or production expertise in ballistic missile development. Entities in Russia and Western Europe remained the primary conduits of missile-related technology transfers during the first half of 2000." The report further says, "Russian entities during the reporting period continued to supply a variety of ballistic missile-related goods and technical know-how to countries such as ...India."
—"Unclassified Report to Congress on the Acquisition of Technology Relating to Weapons of Mass Destruction and Advanced Conventional Munitions: 1 January Through 30 June 2000," Central Intelligence Agency, 22 February 2001, <http://www.cia.gov>.
28 February 2001
India offers to sell approximately 20 Lakshya unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to Israel. The offer is made to the Israeli defense ministry team visiting the Bangalore air show. Israeli sources indicate that Israel has agreed to test the UAV in part to offset the costs of the sale of additional Israeli defense systems to India. India has also indicated that it would like defense cooperation between the two countries to be a two-way trade. An Israeli official says, "...we are talking about a low-cost and effective UAV that we can't find anywhere else and is not worth developing ourselves."
—"Israel Agrees to Test India's Lakshya UAV, India to Buy Israeli Sea Missile," Middle East Newsline (Jerusalem), 28 February 2001, in FBIS Document GMP20010228000065, 28 February 2001.
5 March 2001
The Indian government orders the chiefs of the Army, Air Force, and Navy to draw up a blueprint for operational command and control of India's nuclear forces. The government's decision is made on the basis of the recommendations of the Group of Minister (GOM) on national security. The GOM was appointed on 17 April 2000 to reappraise India's national security. The GOM submitted its 137-page report to Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee in February 2001. The report recommends the Indian government to appoint a Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) to ensure "provision of single-point military advice to the civil political executive." The report further states, "As India is now a state with nuclear weapons, the highest importance must be attached to the creation of appropriate structures for the management and control of our nuclear weapons and strategic forces. The CDS should exercise administrative control, as distinct from operational military control over these strategic forces."
—"Reforming the National Security System: Recommendations of the Group of Ministers," Government of India, February 2001, pp. 100-101; "Service chiefs to plan on control of N-forces," Times of India (New Delhi), 5 March 2001, <http://www.timesofindia.com>.
5 March 2001
Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) Chairman Dr. Kasturirangan announces that India will launch the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) sometime between 28 March and 3 April 2001. He attributes the delay in the GSLV's launch to extended "quantum-testing and simulation-testing" undertaken to reduce the chances of launch failure.
—"GSLV launch by April: ISRO chief," Hindu (Chennai), 6 March 2001, <http://www.thehindu.com>.
20 March 2001
India has reportedly purchased parts of Israel's Green Pine radar system, which is capable of detecting ballistic missile attacks from hundreds of kilometers away. The Green Pine radar has been developed by Israel's Elta Electronic Industries. India decided to buy the radar in 1998; but the sale was delayed due to US pressure on Israel to delay the sale as a result of India's May 1998 nuclear tests.
—"Israel supplies radar to India," Hindu (Chennai), 21 March 2001, <http://www.thehindu.com>.
27 March 2001
Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee orders the Group of Ministers recommendations on "Reforming the National Security System" to be placed before the cabinet for formal approval. He also approves the creation of the post of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS). The CDS will be a single-point military advisor to the government and will also serve as the operational head of India's nuclear forces.
— "PM gives the green light for Chief of Defence Staff post," Hindustan Times (New Delhi), 28 March 2001, <http://www.hindustantimes.com>; "Army Chief, Brajesh discuss defence norms," Hindu (Chennai), 29 March 2001, <http://www.thehindu.com>.
28 March 2001
The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) aborts mission to launch Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV). According to ISRO Chairman Dr. Kasturirangan, on ignition of the strap-on motors, the insulation of one of the four motors caught fire. As a consequence, "one strap-on did not develop the expected level of thrust, so the computer ordered the shut down of the entire system." Although ISRO has not yet fixed a new launch date, the GSLV is expected to be launched sometime in May 2001.
—R.K. Radhakrishnan, "GSLV launch aborted," Hindu (Chennai), 29 March 2001, <http://www.thehindu.com>; "Relaunch in May?" Hindu (Chennai), 31 March 2001, <http://www.thehindu.com>.
29 March 2001
India's Chief of Army Staff General S. Padmanabhan and National Security Advisor Brajesh Mishra meet to discuss defense reforms including the post of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS). The meeting follows directions from the Defense Minister Jaswant Singh for completing the preparatory work to implement the recommendations of the Group of Ministers on higher defense management. General Padmanabhan's meeting with Brajesh Mishra is followed by a meeting of the tri-service Chiefs of Staff Committee chaired by the Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Sushil Kumar. According to senior Indian government sources, the Chiefs of Staff Committee is preparing to make a detailed presentation on the formation of the CDS, and associated structures related to the national nuclear command before the Cabinet Committee on Security in early April 2001.
—"Army Chief, Brajesh discuss defence reforms," Hindu (Chennai), 29 March 2001, <http://www.thehindu.com>.
20 March 2001
Defense News reports that India is seeking to purchase electro-optical seekers for ballistic missile warheads from the Moscow-based Central Scientific and Research Institute of Automatics and Hydraulics. The electro-optical seeker being sought was developed for Russia's 8K14 or Scud B ballistic missile; it is also deployed on Russia's Iskander E short-range ballistic missile. An optical seeker warhead compares imagery from the on-board target seeker with stored photographs of the target image in its guidance computer to achieve greater accuracy during the terminal stages of a warhead's flight. An Indian official confirms that India has sought Russian technical assistance to develop electro-optical seekers for ballistic missiles, but no assistance has been provided so far. The issue will be discussed during the next round of the Indo-Russian Joint Commission on Military Cooperation in New Delhi in April 2001.
—Douglas Barrie and Simon Sardzhyan, "Arms Control in Crosshairs in Sensor Sale: System Would Improve Accuracy of Indian Missiles," Defense News (Springfield, VA), 26 March 2001, pp. 1, 28.
30 March 2001
Indian space officials trace the cause of the aborted Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) launch on 28 March 2001 to a malfunctioning gas injector in one of the rocket's four strap-on engines. The gas injector drives the turbine, which in turn activates the propellant pumps in liquid strap-on engines, did not develop enough pressure to drive the turbines. This prevented one of the strap-on from gaining the required more than 95% thrust. Although the thrust developed by that particular strap-on was only marginally low, the automatic launch sequence sensed the fault and ordered the shut down of all the four liquid strap-on engines. Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) officials claim that since this is only a minor problem, the GSLV can be launched within a few weeks.
—"GSLV-D1 malfunctioning traced to gas injector," Deccan Herald (Bangalore), 30 March 2001, <http://www.deccanherald.com>.
31 March 2001
India conducts 18th test of the Prithvi ballistic missile. The missile's flight from the "Chandipur-on-sea" test range is monitored and tracked by a network of radar, optical tracking telescope, three telemetry stations, and a naval ship deployed in the Bay of Bengal. According to Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) sources, the test was conducted to "gauge the propulsion parameters of the missile." The test is described as routine work and DRDO sources say that the results of the trial will be fully known after examining the data from the test.
—"India: Gauging propulsion parameters said main objective of 31 Mar missile test," Times of India (Mumbai), 31 March 2001, in FBIS Document: SAP20010331000069, 31 March 2001.
April 2001
According to Defense News, India is planning to lease two S-300PMU anti-missile systems from Russia to protect its nuclear command posts and other vital military installations. A team of senior Indian Army and air officials are currently undertaking a six-month training course to operate the missile system in Russia; the team will return to India in June 2001. India is expected to pay $50 million for leasing the two S-300PMU systems, which will be delivered by December 2001. An agreement to lease the two missile systems will be signed during the meeting of the Indo-Russian Joint Commission on Military Cooperation in April 2001.
—Vivek Raghuvanshi, "India To Lease Antimissile Systems From Russia," Defense News (Springfield, VA), 2 April 2001, p. 4.
7 April 2001
The first launch of the GSLV-DI (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle) is rescheduled for 18 April 2001; the window for the launch extends up to 25 April 2001. According to an Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) press release, the 28 March 2001 mission was aborted after the automatic launch processing system detected that one of the strap-on boosters did not develop the required thrust. A detailed study of the data obtained during the five seconds of operation of the four strap-on motors during the countdown sequence showed that one of the strap-on boosters did not develop the required thrust due to a defective plumbing in the oxidizer flow line of the engine. This resulted in reduced flow of oxidizer to the engine. The anomalous engine is being replaced with a standby engine. A review of video and other data from the launch pad also reveals that the fire that spread from one of the strap-on boosters was due to the burning of foam insulation pads and was incidental; no permanent damage was caused to the vehicle.
—"GSLV-DI Launch Rescheduled for 18 April 2001," Indian Space Research Organization, 7 April 2001, <http://www.isro.org>.
11 April 2001
A Trishul surface-to-air missile (SAM) explodes at the Naval Armament Depot at Cochin (Kerela). Indian officials say the explosion occurred when the Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) team was checking the continuity of the electrical circuit with a 28-volt current. The explosion took place in the propulsion system of the missile, which was to be tested by the Navy later during April. The missile was apparently not fitted with its warhead when the blast occurred.
—George Iype, "Missile blows up in Cochin arms depot," Rediff on the Net, 11 April 2001, <http://www.rediff.com>.
18 April 2001
Successful launch of the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) at 3:43 p.m.; the vehicle successfully deploys the 1.54-ton GSAT-1 satellite in a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) of 181km perigee and an apogee of 32,051km with the orbit inclination of 19.2° with respect to the equator. According to the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) sources, the first-stage 125-ton solid-propellant motor burned for 100 seconds and carried the vehicle to an altitude of 75km; the second stage, which carried 37.5 tons of liquid propellant, burned for 150 seconds, taking the vehicle to an altitude of 126km. After separation of the second stage, the cryogenic stage was ignited. The cryogenic stage, which carried 12.5 tons of liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen, burned for 693 seconds, taking the satellite and equipment bay to an altitude of 195km. The cryogenic stage was obtained from Russia and successfully integrated with electronic systems developed by ISRO.
—ISRO Press Release, "GSLV Launched Successfully," 18 April 2001, Indian Space Research Organization, <http://www.isro.org>.
19 April 2001
Defense Minister Jaswant Singh informs parliament that India conducted eight successful missile tests during 2000-2001. The tests included one test each of the Prithvi and the Agni-II ballistic missiles, and two each of the Trishul, Akash, and Nag missiles. Singh discloses that Prithvi missiles are being inducted into the Indian Air Force.
—"Singh says Prithvi missiles 'being inducted' into Indian Air Force," Deccan Herald (Bangalore), 19 April 2001, in FBIS Document SAP20010419000023, 19 April 2001.
20 April 2001
The Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) appears to have underperformed as figures released by the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) show that the GSAT-1's apogee after launch was "32,051km as compared to the 35,975km, which should have been achieved. The shortfall of 3,900km is well beyond the launch vehicle's permissible orbital dispersion. In addition, the orbital inclination, the angle at which the satellite's orbit is inclined to the equator, is 19.2°, compared to the 19° degrees planned for."
—N. Gopal Raj, "ISRO hopes to overcome orbit shortfall," Hindu (Chennai), 20 April 2001, <http://www.thehindu.com>.
30 April 2001
According to Defense News, Indian defense scientists are planning to test an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). The missile, which is called Surya, is based on a combination of solid motors and liquid-propellant engines and is a variant of India's Agni ballistic missile. However, the Surya's test-bed will be a single-stage liquid-fuel cryogenic engine. The development of the Surya, which is also known as Agni IV, began in 1994. It uses cryogenic engine technology developed at Indian Space Research Organization's (ISRO) Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) in Mahendragiri (Tamil Nadu) and guidance systems developed for the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV). According to a Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) scientist, the Surya will have a range of 5,000km. A follow-on version of the Surya known as Surya II (12,000km-range) will be tested in 2003 and thereafter the missile's range will be extended to 20,000km. The Surya I will be 40m in length and weigh 40 tons. DRDO has spent $75 million on the Surya project so far and the government has allocated an additional $100 million outside the regular 2001-2002 defense budget for the ICBM program. The defense ministry is now debating whether India should develop ICBMs or focus on building short- and intermediate-range ballistic missiles.
—Vivek Raghuvanshi, "Indian Scientists Poised to Test-Launch Country's First ICBM," Defense News (Springfield, VA), 30 April 2001, p. 26.
May 2001
India's defense ministry invites French, Israeli, and Russian companies to sign an agreement that will allow India to license-produce advanced air-to-air missiles. Under the Indian plan, the missiles will be produced at Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) in Hyderabad (Andhra Pradesh) in return for royalties and commitment not to export the missiles to other countries. The license-production agreement will also supplement India's plans to develop an indigenous advanced air-to-air missile (Astra). The Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) is working on a $15 million project to develop the Astra; the first phase of trials is expected to be completed by 2003.
—Vivek Raghuvanshi, "India Seeks License To Build Missiles It Has Failed To Buy," Defense News (Springfield, VA), 18-24 June 2001, p. 60.
4 May 2001
Indian Foreign and Defense Minister Jaswant Singh denies reports that India is developing an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). During a joint press conference with Russian Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov, Singh says, "the ICBM is neither our project nor our intention."
—"Report on ICBM denied," Hindu (Chennai), 5 May 2001, <http://www.thehindu.com>.
7 May 2001
The Indian parliament's Select Committee on Defense criticizes the Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) for poor management of the Lakshya unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) project. A 42-page report issued by the committee says, "it is amply clear" that production of the UAV at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) "cannot be anticipated with any degree of certainty," as production facilities have not been created. The report further adds that after 20 years of working on the project and expenditures totaling $7.82 million, the goal of "providing the users with unmanned targets remains largely unfulfilled." According to a senior Indian defense official, DRDO was supposed to submit five UAVs to the Air Force in 1996 and another five were to be delivered to the Navy by 1997. However, the promised UAVs were only delivered to the Air Force in April 2001; meanwhile, the Navy has not received any of the promised vehicles. The official further said that Indian labs have been unable to develop an engine for the Lakshya. However, DRDO officials maintain that DRDO can meet the armed services' requirements for UAVs.
—Vivek Raghuvanshi, "Indian Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Quietly Fades Into the Distance: 20-Year Lakshya Program Fails to Yield an Engine," Defense News (Springfield, VA), 7 May 2001, p. 14.
May 2001
India's Minister of State for Science & Technology, B.S. Rawat, signs a memorandum of understanding on bilateral cooperation in with V.A. Tolokonsky, Governor of Russia's Novosibirsk region. According to Rawat, the MoU will provide additional mechanisms for cooperation between Indian and Russian scientists in Siberia and Bashkortastan in areas of industrial applications of "laser technology, catalysts, high-purity materials, accelerators, and heat physics." In Bashkortastan, the Indian delegation discussed the expansion of cooperation in aviation and composite material technologies.
—Vladimir Radyuhin, "India signs MoU with Russian regions on S&T," Hindu (Chennai), 23 May 2001, <http://www.thehindu.com>; Vinay Shukla, "India, Russia sign MoU on scientific cooperation," Hindustan Times (New Delhi), 16 May 2001, <http://www.hindustantimes.com>.
2001
Expressing concerns at China's growing nuclear capabilities, the Indian defense ministry's annual report (2000-2001) says, "Every major Indian city is within reach of Chinese missiles and it is reported that this capability is being further augmented to include Submarine Launched Ballistic Missiles (SLBMs). The asymmetry in terms of nuclear forces is strongly in favor of China, which additionally has helped Pakistan to build missile and nuclear capability."
—"India's Security Environment," Ministry of Defence Annual Report, (New Delhi: Government of India, 2000-2001), p. 3.
31 May 2001
India's Defense Minister Jaswant Singh informs the parliament's consultative committee on defense that the Agni ballistic missile is likely to be "inducted" into the armed forces in 2001-2002. Singh tells members of parliament that "limited production" of the "operational missile system" has commenced and the missile forms the bedrock of India's minimum deterrent." According to Singh, "no constraints in funds will be allowed to come in the way of the indigenous development of the integrated missile program"...and the development of the Agni II is proof of the country's "determination to indigenize" defense production. Indian defense sources claim that the government is also considering approving the development of missiles with a longer range than the Agni II.
—"Long-range Agni missile gets go-ahead," Times Of India (New Delhi), 1 June 2001, <http://www.timesofindia.com>; "India to fine-tune n-delivery systems," Hindu (Chennai), 31 May 2001, <http://www.thehindu.com>.
12 June 2001
India and Russia jointly test a ramjet-powered cruise missile at the Interim Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur (Orissa). The 280km-range cruise missile, which is christened Brahmos/PJ-10 (mnemonic for Brahmaputra-Moscow), is the result of a collaboration project between the Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) and Russia's NPO Maschinostroyenia. The Indo-Russian joint venture apparently began in 1995. While the missile's propulsion system was developed in Russia, its guidance system was developed by DRDO. The missile weight is 3 tons, length is 6.9 meters, and diameter is 0.45 meters. A solid-propellant booster helps the missile achieve supersonic speeds, after which an air-breathing kerosene ramjet engine powers the missile in its six- to seven-minute trajectory to the target. The Brahmos/PJ-10 can be launched from a variety of platforms including ships, submarines, and aircraft. India hopes to begin manufacturing the missile in two years and offer it for sale in the international market. India's Defense Minister Jaswant Singh, who was present at the test, describes it as a "landmark in technology partnership" between India and Russia.
—Debabrata Mohanty and Chandan Nandy, "Birth in Russia, Blast-Off in India," Telegraph (Calcutta), 12 June 2001, <http://www.telegraphindia.com>; Atul Aneja, "Indo-Russian Missile Tested," Hindu (Chennai), 13 June 2001, <http://www.thehindu.com>.
16 June 2001
Commenting on the successful test of the Brahmos/PJ-10 supersonic cruise missile with India, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Ilya Klebanov says that the Russian government aims at the "joint development, exploitation, and marketing of new weapons" in line with the Indo-Russian declaration on strategic partnership signed in the year 2000. Klebanov claims that India and Russia will "push the new cruise missile to the markets of third countries."
—Vladimir Radyuhin, "India, Russia to market missile," Hindu (Chennai), 16 June 2001, <http://www.thehindu.com>.
June 2001
According to media reports, the Indo-Russian joint venture to develop the Brahmos/PJ-10 cruise missile is just one of the products of a secret agreement reached between India and Russia in 1998. Apparently, India signed the agreement to develop technologies denied by other advanced industrialized countries. According to the Indian defense minister's scientific advisor and head of the Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO), Dr. V.K. Aatre, "we have initiated joint research programs with Russia. We are not going to elaborate on what we are doing." Commenting on the Brahmos test, Taposh Banerjee, a former defense secretary says that India is looking for international partnerships in a specific defense program.
—Vivek Raghuvanshi, "Secret India-Russia Pact Produces Cruise Missile," Defense News (Springfield, VA), 18-24 June 2001, p. 3.
