29 January 2002
The Indian defense ministry speeds up plans to purchase S-300V anti-missile systems from Russia.
—Vivek Raghuvanshi, "India Moves Ahead to Fulfill $2.5 Billion in Weapon Deals," Defense News (Springfield, VA), 11-17 February 2002, p. 34.

30 January 2002
India announces the successful test of its Trishul surface-to-air missile at Cochin, Kerala. According to an official statement from the defense ministry, the missile was tested on 28 and 29 January in a "sea-skimming mode" in order to establish its capabilities in an "anti-sea skimmer role." The missile, which failed in its five previous tests, will undergo further testing before the Navy is allowed to conduct its own trials. For the time being, the Navy will continue to arm its vessels with Barak anti-missile systems, purchased from Israel.
—"India: Trishul Missile Test-Fired 28-29 January," BBC Monitoring South Asia, 30 January 2002; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 30 January 2002, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "India Tests Naval Surface-to-Air Missile," AFX-Asia, 30 January 2002; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 31 January 2002, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

31 January 2002
Media and official reports confirm that the Indian government has delegated control of front-line missiles to military forces. This turn-over was made on the condition that the missiles would only be armed with conventional warheads.
—Pratap Chakravarty, "India Ridicules Pakistan and Warns Troops, Missiles will Hold Border," Agence France Presse, 31 January 2002; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 31 January 2002, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

January 2002
The Indian Army rejects the Nishant unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) due to its poor high-altitude performance.
—Vivek Raghuvanshi, "India Shows Some Movement in Opening Industry," Defense News (Springfield, VA), 25-31 March 2002, p. 42.

5 February 2002
V.K. Aatre, scientific advisor to Defense Minister George Fernandes, says that the government plans to improve the Agni ballistic missile by increasing its range, decreasing its weight, and introducing better systems. He also notes that India will embark on further trials of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile that is being co-developed with Russia.
—"Agni Strike Range to Be Increased," Rediff on the Net, 5 February 2002, <http://www.rediff.com>.

7 February 2002
Delegates from 78 nations meet in Paris to discuss an "international code of conduct" regarding ballistic missile proliferation. India sends a delegation to participate in the two-day conference.
—"78 Nations Meet on Ballistic Missile Proliferation in Paris," Xinhua News Agency, 7 February 2002; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 8 February 2002, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

9 February 2002
The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) successfully tests an indigenously developed cryogenic integrated engine at the Liquid Propulsion Systems Center (LPSC) in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu. The 7.5-ton engine, which utilizes liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen as its fuel source, is tested for 10 seconds. A new cryogenic-powered rocket stage will reportedly replace the third stage of Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicles (GSLV) in the future.
—Syed Muthahar, "ISRO Test Fires Cryogenic Engine," Hindu (Chennai), 10 February 2002, <http://www.hinduonnet.com>.

19 February 2002
The Director of the Central Electrochemical Research Institute, M. Raghavan, tells the press that his institution has successfully developed special coatings to protect missiles from corrosion. In addition to increasing the service lives of missiles, some new coatings may add stealth capabilities to aircraft.
—"India Develops Novel Coatings for Missiles, Aircraft," Press Trust of India, 19 February 2002; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 19 February 2002, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

27 February 2002
The Navy expects to begin user trials of the BrahMos cruise missiles soon. A Rajput-class destroyer will be utilized for the trials, which are set to begin in June or July 2002. According to Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) officials, the BrahMos "has several varieties of flight trajectories and uses the fire-and-forget principle." In addition to having a low radar signature, the DRDO claims that the BrahMos is an easy to operate cruise missile.
—Josy Joseph, "Navy to Test India's First Cruise Missile," Rediff on the Net, 27 February 2002, <http://www.rediff.com>.

28 February 2002
Budget proposals for the fiscal year 2002 allocate Rs 650 billion ($13.5 billion), up 4.8% from the previous year. The Indian Army plans for upgrades in air defense and anti-missile systems. The Navy is negotiating the purchase of additional anti-missile systems, such as the Barak from Israel.
—Vivek Raghuvanshi, "Indian Budget Increase Tied to Unspent Funds," Defense News, 25-31 March 2002, p. 28.

2 March 2002
The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) conducts another test of the cryogenic rocket engine. The indigenously developed engine is fired for 40 seconds. According to ISRO officials, the next phase will include a prolonged testing time of 200 seconds.
—"India Tests Fire Rocket Engine," Dawn (Karachi), 3 March 2002, <http://www.dawn.com>.

4 March 2002
The Deputy Chief Manager of the BrahMos Company, Alexander Maksichev, tells the Interfax News Agency that the second test of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile is scheduled for June 2002. According to Maksichev, the BrahMos is "a multifunctional missile used to destroy a wide variety of sea-borne targets." He says that a ship-launched version is now under development. This variant will be 500kg light and have an altered launching device. Thereafter, the missile could reportedly be launched from ships and submarines without any adjustments or design alterations. The new missile will have a "flight range of 290km, supersonic speed of up to 2.8 Mach, a payload of up to 300kg and a low radar signature." Its operation mode will also allow for fire-and-forget capabilities. According to unofficial sources, the development of this missile will cost approximately $240 million and be financed jointly by Russia and India.
—"Russian-Indian Supersonic Missile to Be Test Launched," Agenstvo Voyennykh Novostey (Moscow), 4 March 2002; in FBIS Document CET2002030400239, 4 March 2002.

5 March 2002
The Akash medium-range surface-to-air missile is tested from the Interim Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, Orissa. Akash has a range of 25km.
—"Akash Test-Fired," Hindu (Chennai), 6 March 2002, <http://www.hinduonnet.com>; "India Test-Fires Akash Missile," Global News Wire, 5 March 2002; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 5 March 2002, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

15 March 2002
India's Ministry of Defense announces that the 2000km-range Agni-II ballistic missile has entered into production and will soon be commissioned to the armed forces.
—"Agni-II Enters Production Phase," Global News Wire, 15 March 2002; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 18 March 2002, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

18 March 2002
V.K. Aatre, scientific advisor to the defense minister, says that India will test the Agni-III [Agni-I] within the next three months. The nuclear-capable missile will have a range of 700km.
—"India to Test Agni III within Three Months," Times of India (Mumbai), 18 March 2002, <http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com>.

25 March 2002
India's pilotless target aircraft (PTA) "Lakshya" is test-flown with a new engine at the Interim Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur, Orissa. Lakshya PTAs were originally inducted into the Indian Air Force in 2000.
—"Lakshya Test-Flown," Hindu (Chennai), 26 March 2002, <http://www.hinduonnet.com>; "UAV Lakshya Successfully Test-Flown with New Engine," Hindustan Times (New Delhi), 25 March 2002, <http://www.hindustantimes.com>.

30 March 2002
India carries out another test of the cryogenic engine for the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV). The successful test-firing lasts 12 minutes. An Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) press release says that the test was carried out at the Liquid Propulsion Systems Center (LPSC) test complex at Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu. According to the press release, the engine produced a nominal thrust of seven tons, and, that while the LPSC was accountable for the engine and testing facilities, the Vikram Sarabhai Space Center (VSSC) in Thiruvanathapuram was responsible for the production of pyrogen igniters, pyrotechnic devices and analysis software.
—"Indigenous Cryo Engine Successfully Test-Fired," Hindu (Chennai), 31 March 2002, <http://www.hinduonnet.com>.

31 March 2002
India conducts a successful ground test of an optimized two-meter diameter solid motor at the Indian Space Research Organization's (ISRO) Sriharikota High Altitude Range (SHAR) in Sriharikota. This motor is earmarked as the new third-stage power source for the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicles (PSLV). According to press reports, the major improvements in the third-stage motor include the "optimization of the motor case and nozzle and increased propellant loading." The motor will likely be used for the next PSLV mission that is planned to enter a geo-synchronous orbit. In this orbit, the solid motor should increase the payload capabilities of PSLVs by 70kg. The Vikram Sarabhai Space Center (VSSC) in Thiruvanathapuram is responsible for the design and development of this new high-performance motor.
—"Solid Motor for PSLV Successfully Tested," Hindu (Chennai), 1 April 2002, <http://www.hinduonnet.com>.

10 April 2002
An Indian defense ministry official says that the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile will enter serial production phase by the end of 2003. This will begin after the completion of additional test launches. India and Russia are currently fine-tuning two basic BrahMos missile systems: a "'universal' version for submarines, warships, and shore-based platforms and a 'BrahMos-A' cruise missile for various aircraft." The naval version features a 200kg warhead while the airborne variant is armed with a 300kg payload. Indian government officials say that BrahMos exports will be restricted to "friendly third-world countries."
—Rajat Pandit, "'BrahMos' to Be Inducted Next Year," Times of India (Mumbai), 10 April 2002, <http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com>.

10 April 2002
Defense Minister George Fernandes leaves for Moscow to discuss acquisition of the Admiral Gorshkov aircraft carrier and the lease of two nuclear submarines. Fernandes also intends to discuss a $1 billion proposal to acquire six S-300 PMU-1 anti-tactical ballistic missile (ATBM) systems from Russia. India, which has been attempting to negotiate the sale of the ATBM system for five years, plans on integrating indigenous Akash surface-to-air missiles and Rajendra radar systems with the S-300 PMU-1s to reduce the sale price. According to Vladimir Simonov, head of the Russian government agency for defense control systems, "the integrated air defense proposal will certainly be on the table during Fernandes' visit."
—Rahul Bedi, "Politics-India: Russian Nuke Submarines High on Shopping List," Inter Press Service, 10 April 2002; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 11 April 2002, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.

16 April 2002
The Indian Army begins preparations to induct the Agni-II intermediate-range ballistic missile. According to Indian defense sources, the Agni will arm a new missile regiment that is being raised by the Army. The induction schedule for the Agni is being discussed at an Army commanders' conference currently underway in New Delhi. The Agni-II system will give the armed forces the capability to deliver 1,000kg payloads to targets located outside the range of India's military aircraft. At the same time, Prithvi missiles will be used as "a battlefield support weapon."
—Rajat Pandit, "Agni-II to Be Inducted into Army," Times of India (Mumbai), 16 April 2002, <http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com>.

25 April 2002
Hindustan Times reports that India's Strategic Nuclear Command (SNC) should be in place by June 2002. An integrated defense staff will command the SNC. According to the report, the Indian Air Force will likely provide the SNC with its first commander-in-chief. For the time being, the SNC chief will answer to the chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC). The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) headed by Prime Minister Vajpayee, however, will have final authority regarding India's nuclear weapons. All orders from the CCS will be conveyed to the chairman of the COSC.
—"India's Nuclear Command to Be in Place by June," Daily Times (Lahore), 26 April 2002, <http://www.dailytimes.com.pk>.

26 April 2002
A fire breaks out in the solid-rocket propellant section of the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL) in Pune. Six people are killed and one person is injured in the accident.
—"6 Killed in DRDO Lab Fire," Hindu (Chennai), 26 April 2002, <http://www.hinduonnet.com>.

28 April 2002
India carries out a second successful test of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile from the Interim Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur-on-Sea, Orissa. In particular, the missile's autopilot and guidance systems are tested during the launch. The first sea-test of the BrahMos is planned for June 2002. According to Indian defense sources, the missile will be configured to carry a nuclear payload at a later date. Military officials believe that the BrahMos will not be inducted into the Indian Navy nor Air Force for several years. A senior navy officer says that the "BrahMos is a very versatile missile, especially if it is used with a sub-sea platform, like a submarine. It will become an important component of India's proposed nuclear deterrence based on a triad of sea, land, and aerial platforms." The BrahMos will apparently play a vital role in ensuring a second-strike capability for the Indian Navy.
—"BrahMos Gives India Lead over Pakistan, China," Times of India (Mumbai), 29 April 2002, <http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com>; "BrahMos Test-Fired," Hindu (Chennai), 29 April 2002, <http://www.hinduonnet.com>; "Indian, Russian Scientists Test Supersonic Cruise Missile 'BrahMos' in Balasore," Times of India (Mumbai), 28 April 2002; in FBIS Document SAP20020428000024, 28 April 2002; Rezaul Laskar "BrahMos Missile Years Away from Induction on Ships, Aircraft," Hindustan Times (New Delhi), 29 April 2002, <http://www.hindustantimes.com>; "Russia, India Stage 'Successful' Test of BrahMos Supersonic Cruise Missile," Nezavisimaya Gazeta (Moscow), 30 April 2002; in FBIS Document CEP20020501000095, 29 April 2002; "India: First Sea-Test of Supersonic Cruise Missile BrahMos Slated for June," Indian Express (Mumbai), 30 April 2002; in FBIS Document SAP200204300000066, 30 April 2002.

2 May 2002
The Indian government informs the Indian parliament's Standing Committee on Defense that it has approved the creation of a Strategic Forces Command to control strategic missiles and space-based assets. The defense ministry also assures the committee that the Akash and Trishul surface-to-air missile programs, which are behind schedule, have been accelerated. In lieu of the delays, the government has approved a plan for the Air Force to upgrade their Pechora surface-to-air missiles.
—"First Strategic Forces Command on the Anvil," Times of India (Mumbai), 2 May 2002, <http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com>; "Government Gives Go Ahead to Creation of Strategic Forces Command," Hindustan Times (New Delhi), 3 May 2002, <http://www.hindustantimes.com>.

8 May 2002
In a written reply to the Rajya Sabha (India's upper house of parliament), Defense Minister George Fernandes says that flight trials of the BrahMos will be conducted in 2002 and 2003. He also adds that serial production of the BrahMos will commence in 2003 so that the missile can be inducted into the armed forces by 2004. According to media reports, the Indian Air Force is examining the option of fitting the three-ton BrahMos cruise missiles on Su-30 fighters.
—"More Tests Planned for BrahMos Cruise Missile: Fernandes," Hindustan Times (New Delhi), 8 May 2002, <http://www.hindustantimes.com>.

9 May 2002
India carries out a second test of the "Lakshya" pilotless target aircraft (PTA) from the Interim Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur-on-sea, Orissa. The test vehicle is equipped with an upgraded engine.
—"Lakshya Successfully Test-Flown," Rediff on the Net, 9 May 2002, <http://www.rediff.com>.

15 May 2002
In an address to the Rajya Sabha (India's upper house of parliament), Defense Minister George Fernandes says that the "government has approved in principle the raising of the Agni missile group for the Army. The DRDO has been working on the design and development of the Agni ballistic missile system based on the strategic requirements of the armed forces." He remarks that the medium-range surface-to-air Akash missile and the short-range Trishul are expected to enter service during 2003-2004. These missiles will be commissioned after additional flight-tests are completed.
—"Agni Missile Group for Army Cleared," Hindu (Chennai), 16 May 2002, <http://www.hinduonnet.com>.

23 May 2002
The Hindu reports that India's Strategic Nuclear Command (SNC) should be in place by June 2002. According to the report, the Indian Air Force will command the SNC that is to be headquartered in Thiruvanathapuram (currently the headquarters of the IAF's Southern Air Command). The SNC will operate within the confines of the newly created Integrated Defense Staff (IDS). The report also states that "a large portion of the SNC's air- and sea-based assets will eventually be based on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal." These island groupings house the headquarters of the Indian tri-service command that was established in October 2001.
—"Strategic N-Command to Be in Place Next Month," Hindu (Chennai), 24 May 2002, <http://www.hinduonnet.com>.

5 June 2002
A senior Navy official says that 12 Klub ZM-54 E anti-ship missiles, acquired from Russia for $30 million in 2000, failed to reach the expected range of 100km during two undersea trials in May 2002 and hence will have to be replaced. According to the officials, India has sent requests for proposals to France, Israel, Italy, and the United States. He adds that the defense ministry has promised to provide adequate funds for the procurement of missiles.
—Vivek Raghuvanshi, "India Seeks Anti-Ship Missiles for Subs," Defense News, 10-16 June 2002.

17 June 2002
A media source reports that an explosion has occurred at Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), India's principal missile manufacturing facility. However, the Indian government does not confirm nor deny this report.
—"Confusion on Agni Factory Blast Report," Dawn (Karachi), 18 June 2002, <http://www.dawn.com>.

21 June 2002
India carries out two successful tests of the Nag anti-tank missiles within a three-hour time span. The third-generation guided missile is tested from the Interim Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur-on-sea near Balasore. The tests are conducted to determine the Nag's "advanced maneuverability and top-attack trajectory."
—"Nag Missile Test-Fired," Global News Wire, 22 June 2002; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 27 June 2002, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "India Test Fires Anti-Tank Missile," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 21 June 2002; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 21 June 2002, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

22-24 June 2002
An Indian defense ministry official says that India's turbojet-powered unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), the Lakshya, will be subjected to missile-launch trials and other tests during the next two months in Israel. The Lakshya, which is a reusable UAV that can be launched from land or ship, is designed to operate at a maximum altitude of 30,000 feet. Representatives from the Aeronautical Development Establishment in Bangalore will oversee these trials. Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) officials say that the testing of the supersonic Lakshya in Israel is a step towards advanced Indo-Israeli cooperation in UAV production. The Israeli defense ministry, in addition to hosting these trials, has apparently agreed to pay for them as well. While these trials proceed, India will continue to pursue the development of a cruise missile UAV that is capable of carrying a 350kg payload over a range of 600km. Although numerous payloads have already been developed for the Lakshya, the Indian Air Force is apparently dissatisfied with the UAV and is calling for a replacement.
—Vivek Raghuvanshi, "Indian UAV to Be Tested in Israel," Defense News (Springfield, VA), 15-21 July 2002, p. 18.

28 June 2002
Indian Defense Secretary Yogendra Narain says that India has received an advanced Green Pine Radar system from Israel. He adds that the radar system, which is mainly used on an airborne platform as an early warning and control system, will be utilized for "advanced research purposes."
—"India Acquires Missile Tracing Green Pine Radar from Israel," Press Trust of India, 28 June 2002; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 29 June 2002, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

29 June 2002
India tests the Russian rocket system, Smerch, from the Intermediate Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur-on-sea, Orissa. The rocket has a range of 70-90km and is part of an advanced weapons system that India is planning to purchase from Russia. India plans to conduct further Smerch trials in Ladakh and at the Ahmednagar Armor Range.
—"Russian Rocket Test Fired from Indian Test Range," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 30 June 2002; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 1 July 2002; "India Plans to Acquire Russian Rocket System," Global News Wire, 1 July 2002; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

3 July 2002
According to the Director-General of Israel's Ministry of Defense, Amos Yaron, Israel may procure Indian Lakshya unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) for use as targeting drones. However, procurement would be dependent on the success of the Lakshya trials currently being held in Israel.
—Vivek Raghuvanshi, "Indian UAV to be Tested in Israel," Defense News (Springfield, VA), 15-21 July 2002, p. 18.

8 July 2002
An senior Israeli government official says that Israel's planned purchase of Lakshya unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) is aimed at exhibiting Israel's intention to develop mutual defense cooperation with India. Depending on the success of the Lakshya trials, the official claims that Israel "will purchase the Lakshya for purposes of anti-aircraft training." According to a Defense News report, the Indian armed forces have already ordered nearly 75 UAVs from Israel including 50 Searcher 2 mini-UAVs.
—Vivek Raghuvanshi, "Indian UAV to be Tested in Israel," Defense News, 15-21 July 2002, p. 18.

12 July 2002
According to The Times of India, a six-year-old letter written by Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was recently discovered in the files of the Defense Ministry. The letter suggests that the failures of India's Integrated Guided Missile Development Program outweighed its successes. The letter deals with program delays in the Trishul missile program that was to have been completed by 1992. In the letter, written in 1996, Dr. Kalam acknowledges delays in the Trishul program and permits the import of Israeli Barak-I missile systems for Indian Navy warships. On 29 February 1996, Kalam writes: "The type of immediate threat and proposed acquisition of Barak-I by Navy was presented. The Navy confirmed that these six Barak-I systems will be installed in the existing class 15 and 16 ships.... The above proposal by the Navy is agreed to..." The approval of Barak-I imports had two conditions. First, "the Navy monitors and ensures the performance of Barak-I systems, as claimed, and installs it at the earliest. [Second,] the Navy places the order immediately for Trishul missiles and systems to give production thrust." The proposal to purchase Barak-Is was revived in June 1999. This resulted in an order for six missiles at the price of Rs 12 billion in the year 2000.
—Rajesh Ramachandran, "Kalam Had Agreed to Missile Import in 1996," Times of India (Mumbai), 12 July 2002, <http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com>.

14 July 2002
The Chairman of the Indian Space and Research Organization (ISRO), Dr. K. Kasturirangan, says that India will undertake a lunar mission in 2007. He adds that a 2007 launch date would require a mission report from a scientific committee in 2002. Kasturirangan says the ISRO expects the report "any time now."
—"India to Undertake Lunar Mission in 2007: Kasturirangan," Hindu (Chennai), 15 July 2002, <http://www.hinduonnet.com>.

15 July 2002
Indian Defense Secretary Yogendra Narain says that the deal on India's purchase of Green Pine radars from Israel was finalized in May 2002. India intends to integrate Green Pine radars with the indigenous Rajendra radar system, developed for the Akash and Trishul surface-to-air missiles.
—Vivek Raghuvanshi, "Arrow Leads India's Wish List of Arms to Procure from Israel," Defense News (Springfield, VA), 5-11 August 2002, p. 18.

24 July 2002
Indian Defense Minister George Fernandes tells Rajya Sabha (India's upper house of parliament) that the government intends to conduct one more test of the 700km-range Agni before production begins. Fernandes says that development involving Trishul and Akash surface-to-air missiles should be completed by December 2003. The Nag anti-tank missile system will also be ready by December 2004. He further notes that India will begin producing the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile by late 2003 and induct it into the armed forces by 2004. Fernandes adds that all the objectives were met regarding recent test-firings of the Akash, Trishul, Nag, and BrahMos missiles.
—"Another Test of Short Range Agni Planned: Fernandes," Rediff on the Net, 24 July 2002, <http://www.rediff.com>.

29 July 2002
An Indian defense ministry official says that an Indo-Israeli Joint Working Group will meet for the first time on 11 September 2002 in Tel Aviv to outline future military cooperation. The purchase of a US-Israeli Arrow-2 anti-missile system is on the top of India's wish list. India also hopes to procure the Phalcon airborne early warning and control system, unmanned aerial vehicles, naval surface-to-air missiles, and other military equipment. Israel will need US approval to sell the Arrow-2 system to India.
—Vivek Raghuvanshi, "Arrow Leads India's Wish List of Arms to Procure from Israel," Defense News (Springfield, VA), 5-11 August 2002, p. 18.

12 September 2002
India's 1,060kg meteorological satellite (METCAT) is successfully launched from Sriharikota on board a Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). This is the first time that the Indian Space and Research Organization (ISRO) uses a PSLV to launch a meteorological satellite into a geo-synchronous transfer orbit (GTO). The METSAT, which was built by ISRO, "carries a very high resolution radiometer (VHRR) capable of imaging earth in the visible, thermal infrared, and water vapor bands. Its data relay transponder can collect data from unattended meteorological platforms and relay it to the New Delhi Met Data utilization center." The PSLV has four stages that alternate between solid- and liquid-fuel sources. According to Indian media reports, "the third stage solid propellant motor has been optimized and the liquid propellant in the fourth stage has been increased from two tons to two and a half tons." P.S. Goel, the Director of ISRO's satellite center, and Ramakrishnan, the Project Director of PSLV Missions, explain that the METSAT launch using the new PSLV series has "given room for optimism that ISRO will be able to further optimize the various stages to raise a payload up to 1,200kg for a variety of uses." They remark that the PSLV may be able to send payloads into numerous orbits, including the low earth orbit, polar orbit, and GTO.
—K. Ramachandran, "The PSLV Lift-off Successful, METSAT Put in Space," Hindu (Chennai), 13 September 2002, <http://www.hinduonnet.com>; K. Ramachandran "Moon Mission in Four Years," Hindu (Chennai), 13 September 2002, <http://www.hinduonnet.com>.

19 September 2002
In the latest issue of India Report, a Washington-based consultant John E. Carbaugh says "many US officials are keen to involve New Delhi in US plans for a multifaceted missile shield." He adds that senior Indian defense officials have traveled to the United States this year in order to discuss Indian participation in the missile shield. Carbaugh also writes that former US Assistant Secretary of State for South Asia Karl Inderfurth has warned of possible consequences if the United States were to pursue greater cooperation with India regarding missile defense.
—"U.S. Keen to Involve India in Missile Shield Program: Experts," Hindustan Times (New Delhi), 19 September 2002, <http://www.hindustantimes.com>.

22 September 2002
A.S. Pillai, Chief Controller of Research and Development for the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), announces that serial production of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile will begin in 2004. Pillai serves as the chief executive officer for the BrahMos project.
—David C. Isby, "BrahMos Production to Start in 2004," Jane's Missiles and Rockets (Coulsdon, Surrey), 1 November 2002, <http://www4.janes.com>.

24 September 2002
India tests the Trishul short-range surface-to-air missile at the Interim Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur-on-sea, Orissa. The Trishul missile is about three meters long and has a range of nine kilometers. The missile uses a solid-fuel propellant and can deliver a 15kg warhead. The missile "carries a radio altimeter and an autopilot designed to allow the engagement of sea-skimming targets."
—"Trishul Test Fired," Hindu (Chennai), 25 September 2002, <http://www.hinduonnet.com>; David C. Isby "India Announces Successful Trishul Tests," Jane's Missiles and Rockets (Coulsdon, Surrey), 1 November 2002, <http://www4.janes.com>.

24 September 2002
Addressing the House of Commons, British Prime Minister Tony Blair states that the Indian chemical engineering firm NEC Engineers Private Limited provided assistance for the establishment of a chemical production facility in Al Mamoun, Iraq. The facility produces ammonium perchlorate, one of the key ingredients for producing solid fuel for missiles. Blair further alleges that the company has links to a chlorine production facility known as Fallujah-2. The Indian government finds Britain's "selective reference" to the Indian company "unfortunate."
—"Indian cos. Helping Iraq: Blair," Hindu (Chennai), 25 September 2002, <http://www.hinduonnet.com>; Shishir Gupta "The Indian Connection," India Today, 14 October 2002, <http://www.india-today.com>.

25 September 2002
India carries out another successful test of the Trishul surface-to-air missile. The missile is tested from a mobile launcher at the Intermediate Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur-on-sea near Balasore. According to ITR sources, the missile is tested to verify its accuracy and other parameters. Media reports suggest that the Trishul has a sensitive radar altimeter and height-lock-loop control. As a result, the naval version of the Trishul can skim over the sea at low altitudes.
—"Trishul Test Fired for Second Day," Press Trust of India, 25 September 2002; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 25 September 2002, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "Trishul Test Fired Successfully," Press Trust of India, 24 September 2002; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 24 September 2002, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

30 September 2002
The scientific adviser to the Indian defense minister, V.K. Aatre, says that "the naval version of Prithvi, christened Dhanush, is ready for induction after successful trials at sea." The Dhanush utilizes a single-stage, liquid-fueled twin engine with an inertial guidance system. The missile's on-board computers are enhanced by real-time software. According to Aatre, any "teething problems faced by DRDO scientists on the missile's launch stabilization system have been rectified."
—"Indian Missile Dhanush Ready for Navy," Asia Pulse, 30 September 2002; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 30 September 2002, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

4 October 2002
India successfully tests the medium-range Akash surface-to-air missile from the Intermediate Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur-on-sea near Balasore. The missile is fired from a mobile launcher. Akash has a range of 25km and can deliver a 55kg payload. The missile's Rajendra radar can engage four to six targets and track multiple enemy aircraft within a 40-60km range. According to DRDO officials, Akash has now entered user trials after completing its guidance test-flights. Reports indicate that India is now on the verge of completing its integrated guided missile program. This would include the successful production of its Agni, Prithvi, Trishul, Akash, and Nag missile series.
—"India Successfully Test Fires Multi-target Akash Missile," Press Trust of India, 4 October 2002; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 7 October 2002, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "India Test Fires Missile," Agence France Presse, 4 October 2002; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 5 October 2002, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

14 October 2002
The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence reveals that the Indian company NEC Engineers Private Ltd. gave Iraq prohibited weapons of mass destruction-related materials and technical information. A report in India Today alleges that between September 1998 and February 2001, "the NEC shipped out 10 consignments of sensitive and prohibited materials worth $791,343 to Iraq.... The exports included titanium vessels, spherical aluminum powder, titanium centrifugal pumps, and industrial cells with platinum anodes that may have been used in the manufacture of rocket propellant." As a result of these findings, the Indian government forms a coordination group to investigate the export activities of NEC Engineers Private Ltd. This coordination group is composed of senior officials from India's intelligence agencies and is directed by the Joint Secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs.
—Sheshir Gupta, "The Indian Connection," India Today, 14 October 2002, <http://www.india-today.com>.

22 October 2002
India inducts the 250km-range Prithvi II surface-to-surface ballistic missile into the Indian Air Force. However, a senior IAF official remarks that "operationally, Prithvi II makes no sense, especially when 2,500km Agni missile has been given to the Army.... It is a waste of manpower and money." According to Indian defense sources, the Prithvi is intended for "training and familiarization.... It is to supplement strike aircraft. It has a definite role in circumstances when strike aircraft cannot fly, but one needs to keep the pressure up."
—Vishal Thapar, "Prithvi-II Missile Inducted into IAF," Hindustan Times (New Delhi), 22 October 2002, <http://www.hindustantimes.com>.

26 October 2002
Defense Minister George Fernandes says that short- and medium-range versions of the Agni-II surface-to-surface missile have been deployed.
—"Agni Missiles Deployed, Says Fernandes," Global News Wire, 26 October 2002; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 31 October 2002, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

16 November 2002
India declares that it will not be a signatory to the proposed international code of conduct (ICOC) against ballistic missile proliferation. New Delhi claims the ICOC is discriminatory as it fails to differentiate between missile development and space launch vehicles. The ICOC proposal will be considered for approval at a conference in The Hague on 25-26 November 2002.
—"India's No to Draft Missile Regime," Economic Times (Mumbai), 16 November 2002; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 16 November 2002, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "India Will Not Be Party to Code against Missile Proliferation," Hindu (Chennai), 16 November 2002; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 15 November 2002, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

19 November 2002
During a visit to NPO Mashinostroyeniya in Reutov (Moscow Region), Russian President Vladimir Putin says the Indo-Russian BrahMos project is a "successful venture with good prospects ahead." Putin adds that he is happy to see the "accurate and high-quality execution" of Indian defense contracts prior to his trip to India. Putin is scheduled to visit India in early December 2002.
—Vladimir Radyuhin, "Putin Praises BrahMos Project," Hindu (Chennai), 20 November 2002, <http://www.hinduonnet.com>.

28 November 2002
A.S. Pillai, the Chief Controller for Research and Development at the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), says that the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile will be ready for serial production and introduction into the military services within the next two years.
—"BrahMos Induction in Two Years," Hindu (Chennai), 28 November 2002; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 27 November 2002, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

1 December 2002
Russian defense officials say that Russia has again offered India the opportunity to equip itself with integrated air and missile defense systems. Moscow is proposing the sale of long-range S-300V surface-to-air missile systems and the shorter-range "Tor-M1" and "Buk-M1" systems. According to media reports, the S-300V system can track and destroy aerial targets in all weather conditions. This enables the S-300V to protect vital installations from long distances. A Russian official states that the proposed air defense systems could protect India in its entirety and that "the Indian government is considering it."
—"Russia Missile Defense Offer Again," Times of India (Mumbai), 1 December 2002; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 30 November 2002, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

4 December 2002
Speaking at a banquet for Russian President Vladimir Putin, Indian President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam makes the case for marketing BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to "friendly countries." He says that "the joint venture supersonic cruise missile is a unique example of the partnership between our two countries in critical areas of research and development.... Our cooperation in this area has solid foundations and will continue to serve our mutual needs."
—"Kalam for Sale of BrahMos Cruise missile to Friendly Countries," Hindu (Chennai), 5 December 2002, <http://www.hinduonnet.com>.

11 December 2002
A.S. Pillai, Chief Controller for Research and Development at the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), says that India is "in the process of conducting developmental flights [of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile] from various platforms." He adds that the cruise missile's induction into the armed services will commence in 2004.
—"BrahMos to Be Inducted by 2004," Press Trust of India, 11 December 2002; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 11 December 2002, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

11 December 2002
In an address to the Rajya Sabha (India's upper house of parliament), Defense Minister George Fernandes says that India and Russia have signed a protocol regarding the export of Indian manufactured weapon systems manufactured under Russian license. According to the agreement, the export of armaments to third world countries will be made on a case-by-case basis. This protocol enables India to specifically export missiles and spare parts (for advanced fighter aircraft) in the future.
—"India, Russia Sign Protocol on Arms Exports," Hindu (Chennai), 12 December 2002, <http://www.hinduonnet.com>.

12 December 2002
Addressing the media at a conference on smart materials in Bangalore, Scientific Advisor to the Indian Defense Minister, V.K. Aatre, says that the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile will enter trials in two months.
—"Indo-Russian Missile to Go into Trials in Two Months," Hindu (Chennai), 13 December 2002, <http://www.hinduonnet.com>.

25 December 2002
India and the United States are set to begin a new round of missile defense talks in Washington on 15-16 January 2003. The talks will include an inter-agency team from India headed by the foreign ministry's Joint Secretary on Disarmament, Sheelkant Sharma.
—"India-U.S. Missile Defense Talks Ready to Take off," Economic Times (Mumbai), 25 December 2002; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 24 December 2002, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

27 December 2002
A BrahMos supersonic cruise missile test is postponed due to problems in the missile's sub-systems.
—"BrahMos Missile Tests Rescheduled," Times of India (Mumbai), 27 December 2002, <http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com>.

28 December 2002
A Prithvi missile test is postponed for the second time in two days due to technical problems in the missile's sub-systems.
—"Prithvi Launch Put off Again," Hindu (Chennai), 29 December 2002, <http://www.hinduonnet.com>.

30 December 2002
According to Indian defense sources, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) is planning on creating a Strategic Forces Command (SFC) in January 2003. The SFC commander will be under the authority of the Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC) until a Chief of Defense Staff (CDS) is appointed by the government. In the future, the CDS will serve as a "single-point military adviser" to the civilian government in New Delhi.
—Rajat Pandit, "India All Set to Set up Nuclear Forces Command," Times of India (Mumbai), 31 December 2002, <http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com>.

1 January 2003
India conducts 20 missile tests for seven types of missiles at an estimated cost of $16 million. This figure also includes the cost of the flight-tested missiles. According to Defense Minister George Fernandes all the tests achieved their test objectives.
—“20 Missile Tests in India in First Half of 2003 at Cost of 16 Mln Dollars,” Agence France Presse, 30 July 2003, International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 31 July 2003, <http://www.hinduonnet.com>.

1 January 2003
The Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) Chief V.K. Aatre says the 600km-range Agni ballistic missile is "under the process of induction."
—"India to test indigenous missile soon," Hindu (Chennai), 1 January 2003, <http://www.hinduonnet.com>.

3 January 2003
In an interview with the Aerospace Daily, Dr. V. K. Aatre, the chief of the DRDO, states that India will conduct tests for the shorter-range Agni-I missile, surface-to-air Prithvi-II missile, surface-to-air Akash missile, and the BrahMos cruise missile. Dr. Aatre states that each missile will be tested four or five times during the year. The Indian Army and the Indian Air Force are believed to have requested the purchase of about 200 Agni-I missiles. After the completion of user trials, Bharat Dynamics Ltd. will produce the missile. The Prithvi-II is designed for the Indian Air Force and is capable of carrying nuclear warheads and a cluster of submunition bomblets. The Akash surface-to-air missile is based on the Russian SA-6 air defense system and is integrated with the Rajendra phased array radar developed indigenously.
—Bulbul Singh, “India Plans Missile Tests in 2003, DRDO Chief Says,” Aerospace Daily, 6 January 2003, Vol. 205, No. 3, p. 6; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 9 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

4 January 2003
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approves the creation of a Strategic Forces Command (SFC) to manage and administer all nuclear and strategic forces. India also creates a Nuclear Command Authority (NCA) comprising of a Political Council and an Executive Council. The Political Council, headed by the Prime Minister, has the sole authority to order the launch of nuclear weapons. The Political Council also includes the Deputy Prime Minister L.K. Advani, Foreign Minister Yashwant Sinha, and the Defense Minister George Fernandes. The nuclear doctrine released after the meeting says that India will continue to maintain strict control over the exports of nuclear and missile technologies.
—“India Establishes Strategic Forces Command,” Press Trust of India, 4 January 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 5 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Edna Fernandes, “India Sets Up Nuclear Arsenal Command Structure,” Financial Times (London), 6 January 2003, World News, p. 6; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 5 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

4-5 January 2003
India places the two operational Army missile groups under the Strategic Forces Command (SFC). The two army missile groups possess the 150-250 kilometer Prithvi and the 2,500 kilometer Agni ballistic missiles. The SFC is also expected to have civilian nuclear experts from the Nuclear Energy Commission and missile experts from the DRDO.
—“Missile Groups to Form Nucleus of Indian Strategic Forces Command,” BBC Monitoring International Reports, 6 January 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

5 January 2003
K. Kasturirangan, Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and Secretary of the Department of Space (DOS), declares that India is not planning on sending a manned mission to outer space in 2003. The DOS, however, is focusing on a mission to the moon involving an unmanned spacecraft.
—P. Sunderarajan, "No plan to send manned mission to outer space," Hindu (Chennai), 6 January 2003, <http://www.hinduonnet.com>.

8 January 2003
Canada’s Foreign Minister Bill Graham expresses “deep concern” over India’s planned missile tests and urges India not to conduct such tests. Mr. Graham also urges India to sign the Hague Code of Conduct against ballistic missile proliferation.
—“Canada Implores India to Quit Testing Ballistic Missiles,” Agence France Presse, 9 January 2003, International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 9 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

9 January 2003
India test-fires the Agni-I ballistic missile from a mobile launcher on Wheeler’s Island. The test is witnessed by the Defense Minister George Fernandes, DRDO chief and scientific advisor to the defense minister Dr. V.K. Aatre, Chief of Integrated Defense Staff Lt. Gen. Pankaj Joshi, and Deputy Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. J.B.S. Yadava. The 15 meter long missile weighing 12 tons has a range between 600-800 kilometers. Indian defense sources indicate that the missile can be launched from a mobile launcher on a road as well as a rail platform. A press release issued by the Ministry of Defense indicates that the network of ground radar telemetry stations and visual observations from the impact point confirmed the successful completion of mission objectives. A senior official in the Defense Ministry says that the test is expected to validate certain critical technologies like guidance and telemetry systems. Indian sources indicate that a series of seven developmental flight tests are planned with payload capacities varying between one and three tons before the missile is handed over for user trials. Upon successful completion of the user trials, the missile will be handed over to the Army. The Army is also planning to conduct additional tests for the Prithvi missile which has already been inducted into the Army. Pakistan’s Minister for Information Sheikh Rashid Ahmed says that the test demonstrates India’s “war-mongering” attitude. India denies the accusation and says that the tests are part of a routine testing mechanism. India also says that it provided advance notification of the test to Pakistan. The spokesperson for the US State Department Richard Boucher expresses disappointment over the missile test and urges India and Pakistan to adopt restraint on their nuclear weapons and missile programs. The British Foreign Ministry also expresses regret over the missile test and says that the test sends wrong signals to the region and the world.
—“More Agni Missile Tests Planned,” Press Trust of India, 9 January 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 9 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; “Agni Testfire Successful, More Trials to Follow Soon,” Indian Express (Mumbai), 9 January 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 10 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Palash Kumar, “India Tests Ballistic Missile,” Agence France Presse, 9 January 2003, International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 10 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; “Britain Says Indian Missile Test Sends “Wrong Signals”,” Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 9 January 2003; “US “disappointed” at India’s Missile Test,” Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 9 January 2003, Politics; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 10 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Bulbul Singh, “India Tests Agni-1 from Mobile Launcher,” Aerospace Daily, 10 January 2003, Vol. 205, No. 7, p. 7; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 15 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Sandeep Dikshit, “Agni Missile Test-Fired Successfully,” Hindu (Chennai), 10 January 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 9 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

9 January 2003
An 800km-range Agni missile is successfully test fired with a one-ton payload. This Agni variant is intended to fill the gap between short-range Prithvi missiles and the 2,500km range Agni-II missiles.
—Sandeep Dikshit, "Agni missile test-fired successfully," Hindu (Chennai), 9 January 2003, <http://www.hinduonnet.com>.

10 January 2003
The Indian newspaper Statesman reports that the aircraft carrier Admiral Gorshkov, purchased from Russia, will be equipped with the BrahMos cruise missiles.
—“BrahMos Teeth for Gorshkov,” Statesman (Kolkata), 11 January 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 11 January 2003, <http://www.hinduonnet.com>.

10 January 2003
The Indian Air Force threatens to abandon the Trishul surface-to-air missile citing its poor performance. A senior Indian Air Force official informs Aerospace Daily that the missile had trouble detecting targets and maintaining accuracy. A senior official from India’s Defense Research & Defense Organization (DRDO) says that the Trishul project has been scaled back owing to problems related to the guidance system. The DRDO official cites US sanctions imposed after the nuclear tests in May 1998 as having adversely affected the missile’s development.
[1.The Trishul missile system, intended to replace the OSA-AK air defense system, is a quick reaction air defense missile developed by the DRDO. The entire missile assembly includes a tracking radar, a fire control radar, and a missile battery on a chassis. The Army and the Air Force planned to use it against low-flying aircraft whereas the Navy intended to use it against sea-skimming missiles. In the Army version of the missile system, a tracked vehicle will carry three missiles and one radar surveillance and another radar for tracking and guidance. The air force version of the missile system uses two vehicles. The radar is located in a separate vehicle and the second vehicle can carry four missiles. The naval version of the missile system is expected to include an altimeter to enable it to skim waves. The radar for the naval version is under development. Indian military officials indicate that the Trishul does not incorporate revolutionary developments like vectoring capabilities. The Trishul project began in 1984 and the government has spent more than $250 million on the project.]
—Bulbul Singh, “Indian Air Force Threatens to Abandon Trishul Missile,” Aerospace Daily, 13 January 2003, Vol. 205, No. 8, p. 7; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 16 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

10 January 2003
Dr. V.K. Aatre says that India is developing the Agni-III missile with a range of more than 3,000 kilometers and expresses hope that it will be tested by the end of 2003. Dr. Aatre says that India possesses the technology to develop intercontinental ballistic missiles with ranges between 3,500 kilometers and 14,000 kilometers. He adds that India does not have a need to build intercontinental ballistic missiles. Dr. Aatre also states that the 600-800 kilometer range Agni-I is ready for induction into the armed services. Responding to a query whether the Agni-I is ready for induction after only two tests, Dr. Aatre replied that the missile belongs to the Agni series of missiles which have already been tested eight times. According to Dr. Aatre, the naval version of the BrahMos cruise missile will be tested in late January. According to him, the missile reaches a maximum height of 14 kilometers at twice the speed of sound. The missile can carry a 200-kilogram payload to a range of about 300 kilometers. The sensor on the missile head enables the missile to detect a target and change course 20 kilometers from the final objective.
—“India Developing New Variant of Nuclear-Capable Missile,” Agence France Presse, 11 January 2003, International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 12 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; “India Developing ‘Agni II’ Missile,” Press Trust of India, 11 January 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 12 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

12 January 2003
The Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) Chief V.K. Aatre confirms that an Agni-III ballistic missile will be tested by the end of 2003. Aatre states that the Agni-III is not much different from its Agni-I and Agni-II predecessors but will have an extended strike range of 3,500-4,000km. This range will give India the capability to strike targets deep within China.
—Rajat Pandit, "Agni-III Test Likely by Year-End," Economic Times, 12 January 2003; in Lexis-Nexus Academic Universe, 13 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

15 January 2003
Indian Express reports that the process of raising the 334th Prithvi Missile Group has already begun. The 334th, like the 333rd Missile Group, will be stationed in Hyderabad and consists of 12 missile launchers. Both groups will be integrated into the Strategic Force Command at an unspecified date. The 334th Missile Group is expected to be ready by the end of 2003 and will include 300-400 personnel.
—Shishir Gupta, "Agni: sharpening our N-point," Indian Express (Mumbai), 15 January 2003, <http://www.indianexpress.com>.

15 January 2003
India and the United States begin the third round of talks on missile defense. The Indian side is led by the Joint Secretary for Disarmament Sheelkant Sharma and the US delegation is led by Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense David Trachtenberg. An Indian External Affairs Ministry spokesperson says the talks are “exploratory and conceptual in nature.”
—"India, U.S. holds talks on Washington's missile defence," BBC Monitoring South Asia, 15 January 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 15 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

16 January 2003
India's defense ministry denies a television news report that a Prithvi missile was launched unsuccessfully and caught fire. The Defense Research and Development Organization claims there was no launch scheduled for any Prithvi missiles for 16 January 2003.
—"Prithvi launch report denied," Hindu (Chennai), 17 January 2003, <http://www.hinduonnet.com>.

16 January 2003
India and the United States conclude their two day discussions on missile defense and decide to continue discussions on the issue. According to an Indian External Affairs ministry spokesperson, “the two sides discussed security contributions that missile defense could make … the meeting also provided an opportunity to review the latest developments in the US missile defense policy and programme.” The talks also focused on the possibility of Israel’s sale of the Arrow anti-ballistic missile system to India. India requires six to eight anti-missile systems. Indian defense officials, however, remain skeptical whether India can afford to pay $3 billion to $5 billion for the systems. Indian scientists are believed to be seeking other missile defense systems, even older systems, in order to re-engineer such systems and develop an indigenous missile defense system.
—“Indo-US Talks on Missile Defence to Continue,” Economic Times (Mumbai), 18 January 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 19 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Bulbul Singh, “India, US Wrap Up Missile Defense Talks,” Aerospace Daily, 21 January 2003, Vol. 205, No. 13, p. 7; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 24 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

18 January 2003
India’s Defense Minister George Fernandes announces that India and Russia have decided to increase the charter capital in the BrahMos joint venture from $250 million to $300 million in order to meet the production demands for the supersonic missile. Mr. Fernandes describes the BrahMos joint venture as a grand success and states that similar joint ventures in the research, development, and production of hi-tech weapon systems are under discussion.
—“India, Russia to Make Further Investment in Joint Cruise Missile Venture,” BBC Monitoring International Reports, 18 January 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 18 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

18 January 2003
India test-fires the short-range surface-to-air Akash missile at 3.25 PM IST from a mobile launcher at the Interim Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur-on-sea on the eastern coast of India. The Akash missile is intended to be an anti-aircraft missile and is designed to be integrated with the Rajendra phased array radar. The missile weighs 650 kilograms and has a range of 25 kilometers with a payload capacity of 50 kilograms. The missile is capable of tracking 100 targets simultaneously and can fly at a maximum speed of twice the speed of sound. The missile uses an integrated two-stage RAMJET propulsion technology using a solid propellant.  The test is intended to evaluate the performance of the guidance system. According to Indian sources, the user trials for the missile are scheduled to begin soon.
—“India Test Fires Medium Range Akash Missile,” Agence France Presse, 18 January 2003, International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 19 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; “Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile Akash Test Fired,” Press Trust of India, 18 January 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 19 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Pratap Chakravarty, “India Conducts Third Missile Test in 11 Days, Pakistan Protests,” Agence France Presse, 20 January 2003, International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 21 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

19 January 2003
India and Russia agree on an arms deal in which Russia agreed to provide the aircraft carrier Admiral Gorshkov and lease long-range TU-22M3 strategic bombers and an Akula-class nuclear submarine. The BrahMos cruise missile is expected to be used in both the nuclear bomber and the nuclear submarine. The BrahMos cruise missile, even though claimed as an anti-ship weapon, is expected to be used in the future as a long-range nuclear weapon delivery system.
—Manoj Joshi, “Russia Gives Nuclear Edge to Indian Defence,” Times of India (Mumbai), 19 January 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 19 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

20 January 2003
India test-fires the Akash surface-to-air missile at 12.25 PM IST from a mobile launcher at the Interim Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur-on-sea. A senior DRDO official describing the test as one of the final tests before mass production says that the all the test parameters were achieved. Another defense scientist says that the missile requires additional user trials to test more than 100 parameters of the system. According to a defense official, the test achieved more than 80 percent of its test objectives. Ground radars and an on-board precision guidance system guide the missile. According to a senior military official, the missile can be used against Pakistan’s Hatf-I missile with modifications to the warhead and guidance system. According to another defense ministry official the missile can be used to defend large installations like air fields against attack. India is also working on an advanced version of the Akash missile which will have a longer range. The missile under development is based on Russia’s SA-6 and the Rajendra phased array radar is similar to the 30N6 ‘Flap-Lib B” radar used with the S-300 anti-missile system. Pakistan’s Information Minister Sheikh Rashid condemns the test and states that Pakistan will not be provoked by the test. Indian sources deny that the tests are designed to send a political message and state that the testing of Akash missiles is to evaluate their launch efficacy from mobile launchers.
—Pratap Chakravarty, “India Conducts Third Missile Test in 11 Days, Pakistan Protests,” Agence France Presse, 20 January 2003, International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 21 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; “India Test-Fires “Akash” for the Second Time in Three Days,” Xinhua News Agency, 20 January 2003, World News, Political; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 21 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Sandeep Dikshit, “Testing Akash’s Efficacy from Mobile Launchers,” Hindu (Chennai), 21 January 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 20 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Bulbul Singh, “India’s Akash Missile has Another Test Firing,” Aerospace Daily, 22 January 2003, Vol. 205, No. 14, p. 7; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 27 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; "India tests surface to air missile," Channel NewsAsia, 20 January 2003, in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 20 January 2003.

21 January 2003
India conducts its third missile test-firing in three days by launching an Akash surface-to-air missile. The missile is launched from a mobile launcher in Orissa at 0655 GMT. A senior official from the Defense Research and Development Organization says that "all the parameters of the test were achieved" and that this constituted one of the final tests before the Akash enters serial production.
—"India conducts another missile test," International News (Islamabad), 21 January 2003, <http://www.jang.com.pk/thenews/>.

21 January 2003
India’s President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam says that India has begun the flight trials for the BrahMos cruise missile. President Kalam also says that “while reusable missile configuration and technology has not yet emerged in the world, Indian technologists have started working on reusable hypersonic cruise missile system, an integrated design of multiple technologies derived from UAV, aircraft and missile systems.”
—“Supersonic Missile System BrahMos Under Flight Trial,” Press Trust of India, 21 January 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 21 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

21 January 2003
India’s Defense Minister George Fernandes says that India’s recent missile tests are not intended to send any message; instead they are conducted to strengthen defense preparedness and test the ability of the systems.
—“India’s Missile Tests Did Not Send Signals to Anyone,” Agence France Presse, 21 January 2003, International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 22 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

22 January 2003
Speaking before the 54th annual general meeting of the Aeronautical Society of India, President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam announces that flight trials of the supersonic BrahMos cruise missile have begun.
—"Supersonic missile system's trials begin: Kalam," International News (Islamabad), 22 January 2003, <http://www.jang.com.pk/thenews/>.

26 January 2003
The BrahMos/PJ-10 cruise missile is publicly displayed for the first time during the Republic Day parade.
—"Brahmos steals the show," Hindu (Chennai), 27 January 2003, <http://www.hinduonnet.com>.

28 January 2003
The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) announces it will launch a remote sensing 100kg-class micro X-SAT satellite for Singapore. An official states that ISRO's Antrix Corporation and Singapore's Technological University (NTI) have signed an agreement. This will be the ISRO's fifth launch of a foreign satellite. The X-SAT satellite, which will be used for land and coastal imaging, will be launched on board a Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle.
—"ISRO to help launch Singapore's satellite," Times of India (Mumbai), 28 January 2003, <http://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com>.

29 January 2003
India’s Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee discloses that India has received several enquiries about the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile. Mr. Vajpayee says that India even received offers for collaboration on the project. Mr. Vajpayee, however, did not reveal the names of the enquirers.
—Arunkumar Bhatt, “Many Enquiries About BrahMos: PM,” Hindu (Chennai), 29 January 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 28 January 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

3 February 2003
According to a Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) official, India has begun the development of a two-stage space vehicle called Avtar that can take-off and land like an aircraft and place a 1,000 kilogram payload into a low-earth orbit. The vehicle would be capable of performing about 100 re-entries into the atmosphere. According to the DRDO official, the primary function of the vehicle is to act as a “reusable missile launcher, one which can launch missiles, land … and be loaded again for more missions.” The official estimates the total cost for the project to be about $2 billion with a developmental period of ten years. The DRDO official reveals that certain components such as the scramjet engine have already been tested.
—Bulbul Singh, “India Begins Development Work on Avatar Space Vehicle,” Aerospace Daily, 3 February 2003, Vol. 209, No. 20, p. 3; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 3 February 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

5 February 2003
Dr. V.K. Aatre says that the 3,000 kilometer Agni III might be tested before December 2003. Dr. Aatre also indicates that the Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) will soon initiate a subsonic project; but he does not provide any additional details. Dr. Aatre states that the range of the BrahMos cruise missile is limited to 290 kilometers due to the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) and adds that the range of the BrahMos cruise missile might be increased beyond 290 kilometers.
—“India to Test 3000 kms Range Agni Missile This Year,” Press Trust of India, 5 February 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 5 February 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; “Brahmos’ Range Curtailed by MTCR,” India Business Insight (Bangalore), 6 February 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 8 February 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

6 February 2003
India's Bharat Dynamics Limited and the French company MBDA Missile Systems sign an agreement for future technical cooperation in the Indian manufacture of air-to-air and surface-to-air missile systems. The agreement also calls for the design of a new anti-tank missile. The French company may help India in its goal to produce advanced versions of Milan anti-tank missiles and Mica air-to-air missiles for Mirage 2000-5 fighters.
—Sandeep Dikshit, "Pact signed for designing new anti-tank missile," Hindu (Chennai), 7 February 2003; in "India, France Sign Accord for Technical Cooperation in Production of Missiles," FBIS Document SAP20030208000016, 8 February 2003.

6 February 2003
The Indian aviation corporation Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Russian firm NPK Irkut sign a pre-contract agreement for producing Su-30MKI parts under license at HAL enterprises. Aircraft parts will include tail fins, canards, and stabilizers.
—Viktor Myasnikov, "Russian Assault on Bangalore," Vremya MN (Moscow), 7 February 2003; in "Indian Air Show in Bangalore Highlights Russian Arms Sales," FBIS Document CEP20030207000377, 7 February 2003.

7 February 2003
Sources from the Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) indicate that India is preparing to test fire the 3,000 kilometer range Agni III ballistic missile. According to sources, the earliest date for the missile test is in September after the monsoon season. The sources state that the missile has a payload capacity of one ton without specifying the nature of the weapon or its yield. US State Department spokesperson Tara Riggler expresses disappointment over the plans to test the long-range missile and urges India and Pakistan to adopt restraint in their nuclear weapons and missile programs. The Chinese Foreign Ministry, without explicitly referring to the missile project, issues a statement urging all parties involved to work towards maintaining peace and stability in the region.
—“India Prepares to Test Long-Range Missile,” Agence France Presse, 7 February 2003, International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 8 February 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; “China Calls for Regional Stability Ahead of Indian Missile Tests,” Agence France Press, 8 February 2003, International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 9 February 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

9 February 2003
The supersonic BrahMos cruise missile is ready for a test launch from a ship. Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) officials acknowledge that the version of the missile to be launched from a ship is identical in many aspects to the missile that was launched from land, but they also state the test launch from a ship is amore challenging due to the unstable nature of the launch platform as it moves and sways. The Air Force version of the missile, which could be fitted on the Sukhoi-30 and possibly the TU-22, is believed to more challenging to build since the missile has to be shorter and lighter than the versions launched from the sea and land. DRDO officials also indicate that the 150 kilometer-range Dhanush ballistic missile can be handed over to the Navy since the last test for the missile were completed successfully. The Dhanush can be launched from a ship and carry a one ton payload. According to officials, the DRDO corrected the missile’s earlier problems with software configurations.
—“Navy to Get More Teeth with Brahmos,” Statesman (Kolkata), 9 February 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 9 February 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

9 February 2003
The Director of Research Center Imarat (RCI) Dr. V. K. Saraswat says that India is concentrating on developing missile defense technologies like hypersonic class of missiles and long range detection and tracking radars. Dr. Saraswat, however, denies that India has a program to develop inter-continental ballistic missiles (ICBM) and states that India does not face any threat from ICBMs. Stating that India possesses the capability to build any offensive system, Dr. Saraswat states that India is looking to build a layered defense system. Dr. Saraswat adds that India gained valuable experience from building the Agni and the Prithvi series of missiles that would enable it to build any kind of offensive missiles. Describing the capabilities of the Akash surface-to-air missile, Dr. Saraswat says that the missile possesses multi-target capability, computerized operations for low action time, and a coded command guidance for secure and simultaneous multiple engagements. According to Dr. Saraswat, the Prithvi, Agni I, and Agni II missiles are under production. The former Chief Advisor to the Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO), Dr. K.G. Narayanan states that India is likely to develop an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that will be used in a ballistic missile launch warning platform.
—“India Developing Ballistic Missiles to Counter Missile Attacks,” Press Trust of India, 9 February 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 9 February 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; “Plans for Missile Interceptors Unveiled,” Hindu (Chennai), 9 February 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 8 February 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

9 February 2003
A key official from the Defense Research Development Organization announces that India does not have an intercontinental ballistic missile program. The Director of the Research Center Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad, Dr. V.K. Saraswat, also claims that India has almost achieved its goal in offensive weaponry and is currently focusing on the development of a missile defense system using hypersonic-class missiles and long-range detection/tracking radars.
—"India Has No ICBM Programme, Defence Official Says," Yahoo Singapore Website, 10 February 2003, <http://sg.biz.yahoo.com/030210/16/377cz.html>.

10 February 2003
India’s Defense Minister George Fernandes says that the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile will be added to the Indian Navy. Mr. Fernandes also says that the missile will be sold to countries friendly to India and Russia. A representative from the Indo-Russian joint venture company producing the BrahMos missile says that the missile will be test fired from a ship next month.
—“Russian-Indian Missile Brahmos to be Inducted into Indian Navy,” BBC Monitoring International Reports, 10 February 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 10 February 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

11 February 2003
The European Aeronautical Defense and Space Company (EADS) and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) announce plans to jointly manufacture missiles for the export market. EADS, the parent company of MBDA, is the largest aerospace and defense firm in Europe.
—"Indian, French firms clinch deal to sell missiles," Defense-Aerospace Website, 11 February 2003, <http://www.defense-aerospace.com/>.

12 February 2003
India test-fires the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile from the ship INS Rajput. The missile is eight meters long, has a width of 670 mm, and weighs 3,000 kilograms. The missile uses the same propulsion system and homing device that is used in the ‘Yakhont’ or ‘Onyx’ anti-ship missile. Indian scientists developed the missile’s on-board computer guidance system. After its launch from a ship, the missile can reach a maximum height of 14 kilometers at Mach 2 speed. The missile has a range of 185 miles and carries a payload of 440 pounds. The missile is not capable of carrying a nuclear warhead. The missile has a predetermined trajectory and can change course 20 kilometers from the target using a sensor. The missile is also capable of skimming the sea surface. Along with the Indian scientists, about 40 Russian scientists witnessed the test launch. The code name for the joint Indo-Russian project is PJ-10. A spokesperson for Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry Kamran Niaz states that India is following a policy of massive militarization and refuses to indicate whether Pakistan might conduct a missile test in response.
—“BrahMos Flight Tested,” Press Trust of India, 12 February 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 12 February 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; Neelesh Misra, “India Test Fires Cruise Missile Capable of Hitting Pakistan,” Associated Press, 12 February 2003, International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 13 February 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

12 February 2003
The supersonic anti-ship cruise missile BrahMos/PJ-10 is successfully tested from the destroyer INS Rajput off the Orissa coast. The BrahMos, which combines aspects of Yakhont and Onyx SLCMs with Indian computer guidance systems, was first tested on 12 June 2001. The latest test constitutes the first BrahMos launch from a warship. About 40 Russian scientists and DRDO officials witness the test-firing.
—"BrahMos successfully flight-tested from Bay of Bengal," Hindustan Times (New Delhi), 12 February 2003, <http://www.hindustantimes.com>.

15 February 2003
Israel reportedly asks India to invest $100 million in the development of the Arrow anti-ballistic missile system. The Arrow anti-ballistic missile system is jointly developed by Israel and the United States; the United States has provided $628 million for the project. The missile system, in which Turkey has already contributed $100 million, revolves around the Green Pine Radar System that can track and intercept as many as 14 incoming tactical ballistic missiles at a height of 58km. The DRDO has already acquired one Green Pine Radar System from Israel and is planning to integrate it with the Akash missiles and the indigenously developed Rajendra radar. India also hopes to integrate Arrow interceptors with this system. Although any involvement in the missile defense system with Israel will require US approval, Pentagon officials have already stated that India's acquisition of Arrow interceptors would not violate the MTCR as the Arrow constitutes a defensive weapon system.
—Shishir Gupta, "Israel boosts Indian missile defence hope," Indian Express (New Delhi), 15 February 2003; in "Israel Invites India to Participate in Development of Anti-Missile Defense System, FBIS Document SAP20030216000029, 16 February 2003.

19 February 2003
The Chairman of the Space Research Organization (ISRO) lays the foundation stone for increasing the production capacity of Ammonium Perchlorate at the Ammonium Perchlorate Experimental Plant at Aluva from 300 tons to 800 tons. Ammonium Perchlorate is used in the manufacture of solid propellant for rockets.
—T.S. Subramanian, “A Powder that will Power the Nation’s Strategic Capability,” Hindu (Chennai), 20 February 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 20 February 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

20 February 2003
The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is considering the development of re-usable and reconfigurable launch vehicles in order to reduce the high costs of manufacturing satellite launch vehicles.
—“ISRO Bid to Contain Cost of Launch Vehicles,” India Business Insight (Bangalore), 20 February 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 23 February 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

20 February 2003
According to an official from India’s Foreign Ministry, India has agreed to invest $150 million in Israel’s Arrow anti-ballistic missile system. The proposed investment, however, must be approved by the United States. India’s efforts to develop an indigenous anti-missile system Akash have faced cost overruns and time delays. According to the foreign ministry official, India is also discussing the purchase of Russia’s S-300V air defense system. But the discussions have become entangled in negotiations for the purchase of the aircraft carrier Admiral Gorshkov.
—Bulbul Singh, “Israel Invites India to Invest in Arrow-2,” Aerospace Daily, 20 February 2003, Vol 205, No. 33, p. 5; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 25 February 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

20 February 2003
India’s Defense Minister George Fernandes informs the lower house of parliament (Lok Sabha) that the short-range surface-to-air Trishul missile needs to be tested and proven for all its capabilities. The missile’s development is being pursed as part of a technology demonstration project. Mr. Fernandes observed that the missile’s development has established several complex technologies and well as sea-skimming capability. Mr. Fernandes also says that the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile is being tested on several launch platforms.
—“Trishul Needs to be Proved For All Capabilities,” Press Trust of India, 20 February 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 20 February 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

2 March 2003
In the defense budget for 2003-2004, the Indian government allocates separate funding for the Integrated Defense Staff (IDS) thereby enabling the IDS to invest in production lines for ballistic missiles.
—“Separate Funds for IDS, 50% of Total for DRDO (Capital Outlay to Purchase Naval Fleet Increased by Rs 3,300 Crore,” India Business Insight (Bangalore), 2 March 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 5 March 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

3 March 2003
Pakistan’s Defense Minister Rao Sikander Iqbal informs the Pakistani National Assembly that Pakistan has expressed its concern over the proposed sale of the Israeli Arrow anti-ballistic missile system to India. The US House of Representatives is informed that the State Department has not authorized the sale of the Arrow anti-ballistic missile system to Inida citing possible violation of the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR).
—B. Muralidhar Reddy, “Pak Concerned Over Arrow Missile Sale,” Hindu (Chennai), 5 March 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 5 March 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

4 March 2003
India’s Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) seeks assistance from foreign scientists especially from the former Soviet Union for developing millimeter range wave image sensors that could be used in developing precision targeting systems. The Research Center Imarat (RCI), charged with developing the technology indigenously, is facing problems since India does not possess many key components for the wave image sensors. India is developing wave image sensors since the precision guidance system based on India’s satellites provides an accuracy of one kilometer. Also, India does not wish to depend on the highly accurate Global Positioning System (GPS) provided by the United States since the United States might not provide the technology. Therefore, India wishes to use the wave image sensors which could be used with satellite technology for obtaining less then a 10 meter resolution in cross and down range.
—“DRDO Seeks Foreign Help for Precise Target-Hitting Technology (Efforts to Develop Indigenous Technology are Facing Problems),” India Business Insight (Bangalore), 4 March 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 5 March 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

5 March 2003
In a written reply to the upper house of parliament (Rajya Sabha), India’s Defense Minister George Fernandes states that Agni-I and Agni-II ballistic missiles are currently in the production and induction phase. Mr. Fernandes states that Prithvi-I has been inducted and that Prithvi-II and the ship-to-surface Dhanush missiles are being inducted into the armed forces.
—“Agni Missile System Under Production and Induction Phase,” Press Trust of India, 5 March 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 5 March 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.

7 March 2003
A senior official in the Indian Ministry of Defense says that the BrahMos cruise missile will be ready for induction by the end of 2003 after completing flight trials. The official also states that an advanced version of the Akash air defense system with a range of 30 kilometers is under development.
—Bulbul Singh, “India Has Tested All Missiles Under Development, Minister Says,” Aerospace Daily, 7 March 2003, Vol. 205, No. 44, p. 7; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 12 March 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

7 March 2003
German prosecutors in the city of Dortmund order the arrest of two brothers, Peter L. and Michael L., for violating German export control laws by exporting high-precision hydraulic rams that were used in the mobile launchers for the Agni missiles. The two brothers are managers at Montanhydraulik, a company based at Holzwickede, Germany. The company has an office in Chennai, India. The two brothers exported nine consignments of hydraulic cylinders between 1997 and 2000 by declaring them as bridge-laying gear to the export authorities. The two brothers were aware of the use of the hydraulic cylinders in the Agni missile program. It is not known whether the equipment was used in the mobile launchers for Agni-I or Agni-II.
—“Two Arrested in Germany: Supplied Parts for Indian Missile Launcher,” Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 8 Match 2003, Miscellaneous; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 9 April 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

12 March 2003
India’s Defense Minister George Fernandes informs the upper house of parliament (Rajya Sabha) that the short-range surface-to-air Trishul missile has been “de-linked from the user services” as a result of delay in achieving the “state-of-the-art three beam guidance system.” Mr. Fernandes says that the project is currently being pursued as a “technology demonstrator.” Mr. Fernandes adds that the project enabled scientists to establish several complex technologies and sea-skimming capabilities that can be used in other future missile projects. The Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) began the project about twenty years ago and has spent about $62.5 million on the project. The project faced problems in developing the technology for the guidance and propulsion system. The Trishul missile system was designed to defend ships by intercepting low-flying objects with a response time of six seconds after identifying the object. Mr. Fernandes denies that US sanctions imposed after the nuclear tests in May 1998 affected the development of the missile. As a result of the decision to shelve the Trishul project, India might look for foreign anti-missile systems. India is likely to acquire the Israeli Barak anti-ship missile system which is currently used on the INS Viraat, INS Delhi, and INS Mysore.
—“Naval Version of Trishul, A ‘Non-Starter’,” Statesman (Kolkata), 13 March 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 13 March 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; V.K. Raghunathan, “India Scraps Surface-to-Surface Missile; The Trishul, for Targeting Low-Flying Objects, Faces Snags in Developing Guidance and Propulsion Technology,” Straits Times (Singapore), 17 March 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 16 March 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com; Patricia Parmalee, “India’s Defense R&D Organization Scraps Trishul Surface-to-Air Missile,” Aviation Week & Space Technology, 17 March 2003, Vol. 158, No. 11, p. 11, Industry Outlook; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 20 March 2003, http://web.lexis-nexis.com; Bulbul Singh, “Trishul Missile Back on Track, India’s Defense Minister Says,” Aerospace Daily, 30 July 2003, Vol. 207, No. 21, News, p. 5; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 August 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

17 March 2003
India displays the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile at the International Defense Exhibition IDEX 2003 at Abu Dhabi. Dr. A. Sivathanu Pillai, the Chief Controller of Research & Development at DRDO says that India is looking at West Asian and Far East markets for exporting the BrahMos missile. The Chief of Staff of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Armed Forces Lt. Gen. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan visits the stand showing a video of the cruise missile’s capabilities. The Vice Minister of Defense for Iran Hussain Alani also visits the Indian exhibit.
—“Brahmos to Enter West Asia, Far East,” Business Line (Chennai), 18 March 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 18 March 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

18 March 2003
The Indian government decides to establish structures for the Nuclear Command Authority (NCA) at Alwar, Jodhpur, and Pokhran in Rajasthan and also at a location in Delhi and at Kargil. The NCA structure, estimated to cost about Rs. 10,000 crores includes the procurement of anti-missile defenses, land and sea based nuclear delivery systems, command and control communications, computers and intelligence systems. The NCA components setup at Alwar, Jodhpur, and Pokhran are expected to be anti-ballistic missile defense centers. India is expected to seek Russian and Israeli assistance in creating the command and control centers.
—“India Moves Forward on Nuclear, ABM Command and Control Structures,” Defense & Foreign Affairs Daily, 18 March 2003, Vol. XXI, No. 39; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 27 April 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

26 March 2003
India test-fires the short-range Prithvi ballistic missile at 11.30 AM IST from a mobile launcher at the Interim Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur-on-sea on India’s eastern coast. Pakistan also tests a missile a few hours after India’s test. The missile is 8.5 meters in length and weighs 4.6 tons including a one ton payload. The missile incorporates on-board computer and advanced inertial navigation system and can use both solid and liquid propellants. The missile can reach its target at a distance of 150 kilometers in 300 seconds. The missile can carry a nuclear payload or conventional incendiary and fragmentary munitions. India’s Defense Ministry spokesperson Baljit Singh Menon describes the launch as a routine user test for the missile. According to Mr. Menon several senior Army officials witnessed the test. The Prithvi missile has been tested sixteen times since the first test on 22 February, 1988.
—“India Tests Nuclear-Capable Missile, Surprises Analysts,” Agence France Presse, 26 March 2003, International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 27 March 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>; “Prithvi,” Press Trust of India, 26 March 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 26 March 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “Missile Tit-For-Tat: India Test-Fires Nuclear-Capable Rocket, Then Pakistan Launches a Short-Range One,” Gazette (Montreal, Quebec), 27 March 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 27 March 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

6 April 2003
India’s Defense Minister George Fernandes states that India is developing the nuclear-capable Agni III ballistic missile and adds that efforts are underway to test fire the missile in 2003. Without revealing the exact range of Agni III, Mr. Fernandes says that Agni III has a longer range than Agni II. Agni II has a range of more than 2,000 kilometers. Mr. Fernandes also says that Agni I and Agni II are available to the military for deployment and adds that the custodian of the missiles will either be the Strategic Forces Command or the Army based on the situational needs. Mr. Fernandes indicates that the Trishul project, despite being shelved, provided a lot of knowledge that will be used in other projects. Commenting on the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, Mr. Fernandes says that it is ready for deployment since all testing for the missile is complete. Mr. Fernandes also indicates that several countries are interested in the missile and states that the range for the missile does not violate the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR).
—“India Making Efforts to Test Fire “Agni III”: Fernandes,” Press Trust of India, 6 April 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 9 April 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

26 April 2003
India explores the option of creating an aerospace command. Currently, India does not possess important components such as dedicated military satellites or Airborne Warning and Control Systems (AWACS) that are necessary for an aerospace command. The Indian Air Force believes that an aerospace command, among several other uses, can be used in a ballistic missile defense system for India.
—Rajat Pandit, “Groundwork Begins for Aerospace Command,” Times of India (Mumbai), 26 April 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 26 April 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

27 April 2003
The Parliamentary Committee on Public Undertakings says that the government should provide early clearance for the indigenous production of missiles since long delays are forcing Bharat Dynamics Ltd. (BDL) to make losses. The report also points out that the employees BDL, the organization charged with manufacturing missiles, are turning to manufacturing pistols and rifles due to absence of orders to produce missiles. The committee report also recommends upgrading the technological capabilities for BDL in order to keep pace with current developments in modern weapons systems such as improved guidance capabilities.
—“Early Clearance of Indigenous Missiles Production by BDL,” Press Trust of India, 27 April 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 27 April 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

28 April 2003
In its 19th report, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defense states that the Defense Ministry has not initiated any steps to create an aerospace command. The Committee report observes that its earlier reports since 2000 have recommended the creation of an aerospace command. The report states that the Defense Ministry has not taken action for the past three years. Currently, the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) manages aerospace issues and foreign collaborations.
—“Indian Air Force Yet to Materialize Aerospace Command, Only Exploratory Work Done,” World News Connection, 28 April 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 30 April 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

29 April 2003
India test-fires Prithvi II, a modified version of the Prithvi ballistic missile, at 11.30 AM IST from a mobile Transporter Erector Launcher (TEL) at the Interim Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur-on-sea on India’s eastern coast. A press release from the Defense Ministry states that all test objectives were achieved. The DRDO describes the test as part of user trials aimed at fine-tuning the missile. The missile weighs 4.6 tons at launch, which includes a one ton payload. The missile is capable of reaching 150 kilometers in 300 seconds and missile possesses an on-board computer and advanced inertial navigation system. The missile uses both solid and liquid propellants. Defense sources indicate that Prithvi II has a range higher than the version of the missile already inducted into the Army. According to a source, the military wants to increase the range of the missile to about 300-350 kilometers. According to an army official, India has deployed 80 Prithvi I missiles with a range of 150 kilometers. The Indian Army and the Indian Air Force need more than 100 missiles of Prithvi II. A spokesperson for Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry states India provided advance notification for the test.
—“India Successfully Test Fires Prithvi Missile,” BBC Worldwide Monitoring, 29 April 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 29 April 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “Modified Version of Prithvi Missile Test-Fired,” Times of India (Mumbai), 30 April 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 30 April 2003,<http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Bulbul Singh, “India Launches Prithvi-2 Missile to Test New Guidance System,” Aerospace Daily, 30 April 2003, Vol. 206, No. 22, p. 7; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 5 May 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “Pakistan Spokesman Says India Informed in Advance of Missile Test,” BBC Worldwide Monitoring, 29 April 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 29 April 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

May 2003
India’s National Security Advisor Brajesh Mishra discusses the possible sale of the Patriot anti-missile system with the US Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage.
—“India Hopes for a Patriot Nod,” Indian Express (Mumbai), 24 May 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 24 May 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

2 May 2003
India is considering selling missiles to friendly countries in order to boost defense exports. The missiles earmarked for export range from anti-tank missiles to cruise missiles. Indian defense sources stress that such missile exports will not violate the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) even though India does not belong to the MTCR. India and Russia plan to export the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile after the India and Russian armed forces have inducted the missile. India and Russia plan to induct the BrahMos cruise missile in the next six to seven months. Officials estimate a $10 billion market for the BrahMos missile. According to the Asian Age, India is considering the possibility of exporting subsystems of the short-range surface-to-surface Prithvi ballistic missile. According to an official from Bharat Dynamics Ltd. (BDL) India is planning to sell only subsystems of the missile in order to ensure India’s security.
—Rajat Pandit, “New Delhi Planning to Sell Missiles to Friends,” Times of India (Mumbai), 2 May 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 1 May 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “India to Export Missiles to Friendly Countries: Reports,” Agence France Presse, 2 May 2003, International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 1 May 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

4 May 2003
Japan’s defense chief Shigeru Ishiba seeks India’s understanding on the idea of creating a missile defense system. Mr. Ishiba informs India’s Defense Minister George Fernandes that the proposed anti-missile system is entirely defensive in nature which does not threaten other countries.
—“Japan Seeks India’s Understanding for Missile Defense,” Jiji Press Ticker Service, 5 May 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 5 May 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

6 May 2003
The Indian government plans to encourage public sector undertakings (PSUs) to explore foreign markets to export missiles and their subsystems. The missiles considered for exports include anti-tank missiles and ballistic missiles. The Indian government is preparing plans to sell subsystems for the short-range Prithvi ballistic missile. Some countries are believed to have expressed interest in buying the entire missile. According to unconfirmed reports India might have exported some subsystems for the Prithvi missile. The PSUs are currently underutilized due to the long delays in getting clearance for the production of missiles and their susbsystems. Such delays are produced since the military takes a long time to accept new missiles developed by the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO). As a result of such delays, the organizations charged with manufacturing missiles are producing pistols and small arms.
—“PSUs to be Encouraged to Export Missiles,” Hindu (Chennai), 6 May 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 May 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

7 May 2003
India’s Defense Minister George Fernanes informs the upper house of parliament (Rajya Sabha) that Agni I and Agni II are under production and will be deployed in 2003. He also states that the government has approved the development of the 3,000 kilometer range Agni III in order to meet long-term security needs. Mr. Fernandes states that the missile will be tested in the near future but does not provide a specific date. Some sources indicate that the first test for Agni III is likely to occur in November or December 2003. Mr. Fernandes states that Prithvi I has been inducted into the Army and adds that the longer range Prithvi II is currently under production after completing flight tests. Mr. Fernandes says that Prithvi II will be deployed by the Army and the Air Force.
—“Agni I and Agni II Missiles to be Deployed During the Year,” Press Trust of India, 7 May 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 7 May 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “India Will Deploy Two Agni Versions This Year,” Economic Times (Mumbai), 9 May 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 9 May 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

8 May 2003
The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) successfully launches the Geo-Synchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-D2) from the Satish Dhawan Space Center. The GSLV-D2 places a 1,800 kilogram experimental communication satellite in a geosynchronous transfer orbit. The Chairman of the ISRO Dr. K. Kasturirangan says that GSLV Mark II, which is the next version of GSLV, will carry a payload of 2,250 kilograms.
—“India Moves Closer to Global Major in Satellite Launch,” Press Trust of India, 8 May 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 8 May 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; R.K. Radhakrishnan, “Next GSLV Version to Carry Heavier Satellite,” Hindu (Chennai), 10 May 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 10 May 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

11 May 2003
The Scientific Advisor to the Defense Minister Dr. V.K. Aatre says that the 700 kilometer Agni I is ready for induction into the Army.
—“Agni Ready for Induction in Armed Forces,” Press Trust of India, 11 May 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 11 May 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.

18 – 24 May 2003
India discusses the possible sale of the Patriot anti-missile system with the visiting US Assistant Secretary of State for Arms Control Stephen G. Rademaker.
—“India Hopes for a Patriot Nod,” Indian Express (Mumbai), 24 May 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 24 May 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

21 May 2003
The Bush administration releases a fact sheet outlining the National Policy on Ballistic Missile Defense which states that the United States will review its current policies and practices governing technology sharing and cooperation on missile defense. The fact sheet states that such review will include existing export control regulations and statues. A US administration official denies any steps to loosen existing export control regulations and asserts that the issue is still under study and “far from a decision.”
—The White House, “National Policy on Ballistic Missile Defense Fact Sheet,” http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2003/05/20030520-15.html.; Tom Raum, “Administration Eyes Possible Easing of Missile-Export Rules,” Associated Press, 21 May 2003, Washington Dateline; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 22 May 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

24 May 2003
India hopes that the United States will provide a positive response to India’s request for the sale of the Patriot anti-missile system. India believes that a positive response will be given at the next meeting of the Defense Policy Group (DPG) to be held in Washington in late June or early July.
—“India Hopes for a Patriot Nod,” Indian Express (Mumbai), 24 May 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 24 May 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

25 – 31 May 2003
According to a senior defense official Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee will discuss the potential purchase of the S-300V anti-missile system when he meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin. India proposes making advance payment for the system. Upon successful completion of the discussions, Russia will supply four to six S-300V anti-missile systems until a new system is developed.
—Bulbul Singh, “India Proposes Buy of Russian Anti-Missile System,” Aerospace Daily, 3 June 2003, Vol. 206, No. 45, News, p. 5; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 June 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

27 May 2003
A source in the Russian Defense Ministry says that the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile will be tested between 1-5 June 2003. According to the source, a team of technical experts from the Mashinostroyeniye research and production association have left for New Delhi to attend the missile test. The mass production of the missile is expected to begin in India and Russia in 2004.
—“Next Test Launch of Russian-Indian Cruise Missile Set for Early June,” BBC Monitoring International Reports, 27 May 2003; “India Hopes for a Patriot Nod,” Indian Express (Mumbai), 24 May 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 27 May 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

29 May 2003
India test-fires the short-range surface-to-air Akash ballistic missile at 5.00 PM IST from a mobile launcher at the Interim Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur-on-sea on India’s eastern coast. The missile weighs 650 kg and can carry a 50 kg payload. The missile utilizes a two-stage ramjet propulsion technology. According to a defense scientist, India is also building the Rajendra radar which can track 64 aircrafts up to a range of 60 km simultaneously.
—“Akash,” Press Trust of India, 29 May 2003, Nationwide International News; “India Hopes for a Patriot Nod,” Indian Express (Mumbai), 24 May 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 29 May 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

29 May 2003
An Indian Defense Ministry official says that India plans to buy at least 10 Barak missile systems from Israel. According to the official three systems will be acquired during the next two years and the remaining systems will be procured within five years. India already possesses seven Barak missile systems. The Barak missile system is designed to protect combat ships against sea-skimming missiles and aircraft. The decision to procure additional Barak systems was taken after India decided to shelve the Trishul missile project. According to the defense official India wants to buy the vertical launch missile systems that can launch missiles faster.
—Bulbul Singh, “Indian Navy to Buy Additional Barak Missile Systems from Israel,” Aerospace Daily, 29 May 2003, Vol. 206, No. 42, p. 6; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 3 June 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

30 May 2003
According to a Defense official, India is considering the purchase of the Russian S-300V anti-missile system. However, India is giving higher priority to the Israeli Arrow anti-missile system and the American Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) anti-missile system.
—Bulbul Singh, “India Seeks to Acquire PAC-3 Missiles from US,” Aerospace Daily, 30 May 2003, Vol. 206, No. 43, p. 6; “India Hopes for a Patriot Nod,” Indian Express (Mumbai), 24 May 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 4 June 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

June 2003
The scientific advisor to the Defense Minister Dr. V.K. Aatre states that “the Trishul missile is a closed project. It is out of reckoning for induction. We have allowed the users (the three services) to import missiles of this class.” Dr. Aatre states that the missile has a command and guidance problem. According to officials, the DRDO has spent about Rs. 300 crore on the Trishul missile project which was started in 1983. The Trishul missile was originally intended to replace the Russian made Geckos missile supplied for the Air Force and the Navy. The Army’s version of the missile was called Trishul Combat Vehicle. The tests to integrate the missile, missile launcher, surveillance radar, and the fire control system failed. According to a DRDO official, the missile did not hit its intended target during its launch from the Interim Test Range (ITR) and the INS Dronacharya. The DRDO official cites the problem with the command-guidance system and says that the team was not able to guide the missile in the final stages of its flight towards the target. According to sources, the Trishul missile’s design uses ground-based radars for guidance since using on-board sensors would have been expensive and would have required a sophisticated network on-board the missile as well as on the ground. The sources indicate that attempts to change the command-guidance mechanism were analyzed and rejected since it involved major changes to other parts of the missile.
—B.R. Srikanth, “A Cosmi-Comic Show:,” Outlook (New Delhi), 30 June 2003.

2 June 2003
India test-fires the short-range surface-to-air Akash missile from a mobile launcher at 1.15 PM IST at the Interim Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur-on-sea on India’s eastern coast. India tests the missile with the Rajendra phased array radar system. Indian scientists had earlier attempted to use the short-range surface-to-air Trishul ballistic missile in conjunction with the Rajendra array radar. But the effort was shelved after several failures to integrate the Trishul missile with the Rajendra radar. Scientists from the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) term the test as part of development trials and suggest that the missile could be modified as an anti-missile system. According to DRDO sources, the missile will be tested several times before its induction into the military. The Akash missile uses a second-stage ramjet motor and it is guided by a ground-based radar and an onboard homing system. According to an Indian military official, the Akash missile is based on the Russian SA-6 air defense missile and it could be modified to intercept short-range missiles such as Pakistan’s Hatf-1. The Akash missile is also expected to be integrated with the Russian S-300V anti-missile system. Originally, the Akash missile was scheduled to begin user trials in 2003. However, the imposition of US sanctions following the nuclear tests in May 1998 delayed the project since critical technologies such as guidance systems became available only after the removed the sanctions in 2001.
—“Akash Successfully Test Fired,” Press Trust of India, 2 June 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 2 June 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Bulbul Singh, “India’s Akash Missile Nearing User Trials,” Aerospace Daily, 3 June 2003, Vol. 206, No. 45, News, p. 6; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 June 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

2 June 2003
Scientists from the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) indicate that the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile will be test-fired any time this week. According to the sources, two Indian warships INS Rajput and INS Nilgiri are stationed off the Paradip coast to conduct the test. Russia has already tested the missile from its warships. DRDO sources also suggest that India will carry out some more tests for the 800 km range Agni I ballistic missile. India is also planning to carry out the first test for its 3,000 km range Agni III.
—“Akash Successfully Test Fired,” Press Trust of India, 2 June 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 2 June 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

10 June 2003
India test-fires the short-range surface-to-air Akash ballistic missile from a mobile launcher at 11.40 AM IST at the Interim Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur-on-sea on India’s eastern coast. An official at the test site describes the test as “a major milestone in the country’s integrated guided missile development program.”
—“India Test-Fires Akash Missile For 3rd Time in 2 Weeks,” Japan Economic Newswire, 10 June 2003, International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 10 June 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “India Test Fires Surface-to-Air Missile Akash,” Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 10 June 2003, Miscellaneous; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 18 June 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

11 June 2003
India and the United States discuss the sale of high-technology military equipment and modules of the missile defense shield. The United States continues to provide information to India regarding the basic concepts of the missile defense system. India is also invited to attend a missile defense cooperation conference in Japan in July and to attend a missile defense exercise scheduled in July as well at the White Sands testing facility in California. The United States has not approved the sale of the Patriot anti-missile system and the issue has not progressed beyond India’s request for information regarding the Patriot system. The delay is probably due to the restrictions imposed by the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) regarding the export of missile and sensitive technologies. India and the United States are discussing this issue separately.
—Sandeep Dikshit, “India, US Discuss Sale of Hi-Tech Military Equipment,” Hindu (Chennai), 11 June 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 11 June 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

20 June 2003
The scientific advisor to the Defense Minister Dr. V.K. Aatre says that India will conduct the next round of tests for the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile after the monsoon season.
—“Bangalore to Have ‘Smart Materials’ Center,” Hindu (Chennai), 20 June 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 19 June 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

21 June 2003
India acquires the absolute gravimeter at a cost of Rs. 2 crores. The device is capable of accurately measuring the gravitational pull “g” to parts per billion and the device can be used in developing missiles. Japan and China are the only other Asian countries possessing the equipment. India’s National Geophysical Research Institute acquires the instrument and plans to use the device in Antarctica for research purposes. The Director of the Defense Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) Dr. Prahlada says that the device can be useful for defense purposes. According to a senior scientist at DRDL, the gravitational force “g” is an important component in designing missile and delivery systems and adds that the accuracy and efficiency of a missile can be improved by knowing the accurate “g” value at its launching site and target site.
[1. The gravitational pull “g” is the force exerted by the earth towards an object. The gravitational pull varies across locations based on the density of the underground materials at a particular location. During the launch of a missile, “g” acts as a negative force pulling the missile back towards the earth. During the re-entry phase of a missile, “g” acts as a favorable force pulling the missile towards the target on earth. Usually, during the designing phase for a missile, “g” is assumed as constant. However, the ability to calculate the “g” at the launch site and the target site enables the design of missile with high accuracy.]
—Lison Joseph, “Gravimeter Gives India Strategic Edge,” Times of India (Mumbai), 21 June 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 20 June 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

22 June 2003
India test-fires the short-range surface-to-air Trishul ballistic missile at 2.00 PM IST from the Interim Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur-on-sea on India’s eastern coast. The scientists term the test as a success. The missile is tested to evaluate its accuracy and other parameters. The Indian government had earlier planned to shelve the Trishul missile project. The Trishul missile has a range between 500 meters to nine kilometers and can carry a 15 kg payload. The missile can also fly above the sea at a low altitude. The Army and the Air Force can also use the missile, originally intended for the Navy. The missile has a radar altimeter which allows the missile to fly above water at low altitudes.
—“India Tests Homegrown Short Range Surface-to-Air Missile,” Agence France Presse, 22 June 2003, International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 23 June 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “India Conducts Second Test of Trishul Surface-to-Air Missile,” Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 23 June 2003, Politics; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 23 June 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “India” Test Firing of Short Range Surface-to-Air Trishul Missile Detailed,” World News Connection, 23 June 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 25 June 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

23 June 2003
India tests the short-range surface-to-air Trishul surface-to-air missile for the second time in two days. The missile is launched from a mobile launcher at the Interim Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur-on-sea on India’s eastern coast. The missile successfully hit the micro-light unmanned aircraft target.
—“India Conducts Second Test of Trishul Surface-to-Air Missile,” Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 23 June 2003, Politics; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 23 June 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “India Tests Short-range Missile Again,” Agence France Presse, 23 June 2003, International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 24 June 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “India Successfully Test-Fires Short-Range Missile for Second Consecutive Day,” BBC Monitoring International Reports, 23 June 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 23 June 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

\24 June 2003
For the third time in three days India test-fires the short-range surface-to-air Trishul ballistic missile around 6.50 AM GMT from a mobile launcher at the Interim Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur-on-sea on India’s eastern coast. The target is a micro-light unmanned aircraft.
—“Trishul Test-Fired for the Third Time,” Press Trust of India, 24 June 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 24 June 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

24 June 2003
The Indian Express, quoting sources, says that all the four tests for the Trishul missile failed. The news report says that the first test occurred on June 20 in which the missile did not take-off from the missile launcher. In the second test on June 22, the missile was launched but it did not fly to its maximum range of 8-10 km. According to the news report, the third test on Monday also failed. The fourth test on June 24 failed as the missile did not hit the Lakshya micro-light aircraft and both the missile and the target fell into the sea. A spokesperson from the Defense Ministry denies that the fourth test failed to meet its specifications. Until last week the Defense Ministry planned to shelve the Trishul missile project. Last week, however, a decision was taken to test the missile.
—“Four Test-Firings Later, Trishul Yet to Find Its Target,” Indian Express (Mumbai), 24 June 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 25 June 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

25 June 2003
India test-fires the short-range surface-to-air Trishul ballistic missile at 1.20 PM IST for the fourth consecutive day from the Interim Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur-on-sea on India’s eastern coast. According to sources, the test is conducted to verify the missile’s accuracy and other parameters.
—“Trishul Test-Fired Again on the Fourth Consecutive Day at Chandipur,” Pakistan Newswire, 25 June 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 26 June 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “Another Test-Firing,” Hindu (Chennai), 25 June 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 25 June 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

5 July 2003
The scientific advisor to the Defense Minister Dr. V.K. Aatre says that the Trishul missile project has been converted into a research and development project since it did not meet the requirements of the armed services. Dr. Aatre says that the four tests of the missile system last month were conducted to solve the technical problems and says that the Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) will solve the problems associated with the missile system. Dr. Aatre does not provide details about the problems associated with the system. He says that the DRDO allowed the Navy to procure the Barak anti-missile system since the Navy wanted to have a system until the Trishul missile system is completed.
—“India Shelves Development of Short-Range Anti-Aircraft Missile,” Agence France Presse, 6 July 2003, International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 7 July 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

7 July 2003
A senior scientist at the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) denies reports that the Trishul missile project has been abandoned and says that the project is currently “not user-driven but R&D driven.” The senior scientist says that the DRDO is examining problem areas and ensure consistency in performance inn order to retain the customer confidence. The scientist denies news reports that the Trishul missile project is shelved and says that a project as complicated as a surface-to-air missile will involve some delays and setbacks prior to induction. The scientist promises that the DRDO will provide the Navy with the Trishul missile after correcting the problems in command guidance. Another scientist at the Defense Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) says that the four tests of the Trishul missile conducted between June 22 to June 25 were conducted in the presence of Indian Air Force (IAF) officials and states that the results were satisfactory. The DRDL scientist adds that the missed distance was within the stipulated guidelines.
—Anantha Krishnan M., “Trishul Programme is Alive, Kicking: DRDO,” Economic Times (Mumbai), 8 July 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 8 July 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

9 July 2003
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Defense rejects reports that the Trishul missile project is shelved and states that the missile subsystems, air frames, and controls worked as expected in missile tests conducted between June 22 and June 25. The spokesperson says that in future the Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) will conduct the tests in association with the user, i.e. the military. The spokesperson also states that the missile tests achieved better than specified results against moving targets. The spokesperson reveals that the missile tests before June 2003 were not meeting all the desired parameters and says that the problem was arising due to inconsistency of the guidance and control systems. According to the spokesperson, the DRDO conducted the tests last month after carrying out modifications to the guidance and subsystems and propellants. According to the spokesperson four missiles were launched from the Trishul Combat Vehicle in full combat configuration and the tests met all the flight objectives.
—“Further Tests of Trishul to be Carried Out With Users,” Press Trust of India, 9 July 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 12 July 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

16 July 2003
India and the representatives of Lockheed Martin discuss the pricing for the P3 B Orion multi-mission maritime aircraft. Indian defense officials indicate that India can fit the aircraft with BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to provide strike capability for the aircraft.
—C.R. Jayachandran, “India Seeks More Naval Strike Capability,” Economic Times (Mumbai), 16 July 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 16 July 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

17 July 2003
India decides to increase the production of its missiles in order to counter Pakistan’s Hatf, Shaheen, and Ghauri missiles. According to a senior defense official, the Defense ministry sanctioned $500 million to Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) to produce six types of missiles. India plans to produce 50 Prithvi I missile for the Army, 50 Prithvi II missiles for the Air Force, 25 Prithvi Plus missiles for the Army, and 25 Dhanush missiles for the Navy. With the exception of Prithvi I which has a range of 150 kilometers, all the other missiles have a range of 250 km. The Army has also ordered 25 Agni I missiles and 25 Agni II missiles.
—Bulbul Singh, “India to Build Missile Stocks While Seeking Missile Defense,” Aerospace Daily, 17 July 2003, Vol. 207, No. 12, News, p. 2; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 23 July 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

17 July 2003
The outgoing US Ambassador to India Ambassador Robert Blackwill states that the United States does not “fixate on India’s nuclear weapons and missile program.”
—Maseeh Rahman, “Outgoing Envoy Cites Shift in US Policy; Focus for Allies is Now on Civil Nuclear, Space, and Other High-Technology Areas,” South China Morning Post (Hong Kong), 18 July 2003, News, p. 11; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 19 July 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

23 July 2003
India’s Defense Minister George Fernandes informs the upper house of parliament (Rajya Sabha) that the defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) is working to remove the problems associated with the Trishul missile project and convert it into an anti-missile system. Mr. Fernandes says that the project is currently de-linked from user service due to delays arising out of technical problems. Mr. Fernandes claims that the four tests for the Trishul missile conducted in June 2003 met all mission objectives like validating guidance system and operations. However, the Army, Navy, and the Air Force are allowed to import foreign missiles to meet their urgent demands while DRDO solves problems associated with the missile.
—“India’s Home-Made SAM Not a DUD Missile: Defence Minister,” Agence France Presse, 23 July 2003, International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 24 July 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

24 July 2003
The Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) decides to strengthen the security around the Interim Test Range (ITR) in Balasore district and Wheeler’s Island in the nearby Bhadrak district. The DRDO plans to setup sophisticated radar stations along the coastline. The DRDO is increasing the security after Orissa’s Chief Minister raised concerns about the presence of foreign nationals in the vicinity of the missile facilities. During the last two years, Orissa police nabbed Bangladeshi nationals for suspicious movements around the missile facilities. As a first step, the DRDO plans to setup a radar facility at Kendrappa district. The DRDO has also requested the Orissa State government to procure land for the radar facility.
—“Indian Defense Body to Strengthen Security Ring Around Missile Launching Centers,” World News Connection, 24 July 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 26 July 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

30 July 2003
India’s Defense Minister George Fernandes informs parliament that the 700 km Agni I and the 2,000 km Agni II are in the induction phase. Mr. Fernandes says that the 200 km version of the Prithvi has been inducted into the Army whereas the Air Force version of the same missile is under induction.
—“20 Missile Tests in India in First Half of 2003 at Cost of 16 Mln Dollars,” Agence France Presse, 30 July 2003, International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 31 July 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

6 – 7 August 2003
The US-India Defense Policy Group (DPG) meets in Washington DC. India and the United States decide to hold a missile defense workshop in India within the next few months. The workshop is intended as a follow-up to the June 2003 Multinational Ballistic Missile Defense Conference in Kyoto, Japan and attended by India and the United States. India also agrees to participate in the July 2004 Multinational Ballistic Missile Defense Conference in Berlin and the Roving Sands Missile Defense Exercise in 2005. Both sides also agree that missile defense enhances cooperative security and stability.
—“US DOD: Joint Statement on U.S.-India Defense Policy Group,” M2 Presswire, 11 August 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 11 August 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

6 August 2003
The Indian Nay plans to upgrade its Kilo-class submarines and convert them into missile capable submarines. The Indian Navy has 10 kilo-class submarines in its fleet of 16 submarines. According to the Navy’s plans five Kilo-class submarines will be converted to carry missiles. After the transformation, the submarines will become capable of firing missiles with a range of 150-200 km. Currently, the Kilo-class submarines can only fire torpedoes. According to Commodore Uday Chitanavis the Kilo-class submarines “Sindhu Kesari” and “Sindhu Ratna” have already been upgraded. Currently the “Sindhu Ghosh” is undergoing transformation in Russia.
—“Indian Navy Submarines Undergoing Upgradation Programme,” Press Trust of India, 6 August 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 August 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

7 August 2003
Taiwan’s customs officials board the North Korean container ship “Be Gae Dong” docked at Kaohsiung harbor and find 1,000 tons of aluminum oxide. The ship docked in the harbor to unload the 1,000 tons of aluminum oxide. The spokesperson from the Kaohsiung customs bureau Mr. Wong Yao-ming says that the aluminum oxide was made in India and was destined for Pyongyang, North Korea. Earlier, the United States informed the Taiwanese officials that the ship was carrying “missile-making material.” Mr. Wong says that it is not possible to detain the ship since it had declared the aluminum oxide. According to Mr. Wong aluminum oxide alone does not present a danger.
[Aluminum oxide when mixed with other chemicals produces aluminum salt which is used in producing missile shells.]
—“Taiwan Finds ‘Missile-Making’ Material on N. Korean Ship,” Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 8 August 2003, Politics; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 8 August 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

8 August 2003
Dr. R.N. Agarwal, the former Director of the Agni missile project and currently the Director of Advanced Systems Laboratory (ASL), states that the carbon composite content of the new variants of Agni will be increased from 35 percent to 80 per cent making them lighter and hence travel longer ranges. Dr. Agarwal says that Agni’s re-entry heat shield is entirely made up of carbon composite. Dr. Agarwal makes his remarks at the national symposium on “Strategic Materials and Technologies for Composites” organized by the ASL. Dr. Agarwal says that India developed the carbon composite technology completely indigenously since it was highly restricted. Dr. Agarwal adds that futuristic projects such as the reusable hyperplane will utilize composite materials extensively.
—“Lightweight Agni Variant on the Way,” Press Trust of India, 8 August 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 8 August 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

8 August 2003
The Director of the Vikram Sarabhai Space Center (VSCC) Dr. G. Madhavan Nair says that India will launch its first re-usable spacecraft by 2005 aboard the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). After conducting experiments in materials processing and other areas, the spacecraft will be retrieved and re-used. According to Dr. Nair, the project will cost about Rs. 500 million. Dr. Nair also says that Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is developing the next variant of the Geo-Synchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle – Mark III (GSLV-Mark III), which will be able to deploy a 4 ton satellite into geo-synchronous orbit. Dr. V.K. Aatre, the scientific advisor to the Defense Minister, denies that the government is reviewing its decision to continue with certain guided missile projects. Acknowledging the existence of problems in certain projects, Dr. Aatre says that “no such program is being abandoned.”
—“India to Launch Re-usable Spacecraft by 2005,” Press Trust of India, 8 August 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 8 August 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

14 August 2003
As part of its efforts to acquire air defense capabilities, India requests “technical information” regarding the Patriot anti-missile system from the United States. India’s Defense Minister George Fernandes informs the upper house of parliament (Rajya Sabha) that the Indian government has sent a request to the US Defense Cooperation Agency. India is also examining the Israeli Arrow anti-missile system. But Mr. Fernandes say that there is no proposal to acquire and upgrade the Arrow anti-missile system. Russia also renews its proposal to sell the long-range S-300V anti-missile system along with the shorter range Tor-M1 and Buk-M1 systems for theater missile defenses.
—Rajat Pandit, “India Wants Info on Patriot Missile System,” Times of India (Mumbai), 14 August 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 13 August 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

17 August 2003
The Hindustan Times reports that India plans to shelve the surface-to-air Akash missile project. The Akash missile system was intended to provide air-defense capabilities for the Army and protect the vital assets of the Air Force. However, the delays in the development of the 25 kilometer range missile increased the cost for the missile and the Army initiated efforts to look for alternate foreign missile systems. According to the news report, one Akash missile system comprising of four missile batteries was estimated to cost $187.5 million in 1985 and the cost escalated to $416 million. Apart from the cost overruns, the Akash missile also faces technical problems. The radar for the missile system only scans a 90 degree swathe. Hence the missile system cannot track aircraft and missile approaching from different directions at the same time. The Akash missile can reach a maximum speed of Mach 3 which is suitable to target aircraft but is insufficient to target missiles since they fly at more than Mach 6. The defense ministry states that the missile is capable of tracking several targets simultaneously. The new report, however, states that the missile’s ability to respond to multiple unknown targets is doubtful since the missile tests only involved known single targets. According to the report, the Army is not confident that the Akash missile will be inducted even though a series of tests are planned for June 2004. The Army and the Air Force also found the BMP-II chassis unsuitable for mounting the missiles.
—“AFP Cites Hindustan Times Saying India to Shelve Second Anti-Aircraft Missile,” World News Connection, 17 August 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 19 August 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “India’s Medium-Range Missile Akash Set Aside (After Both the Indian Army and Air Force Reject It),” India Business Insight (Bangalore), 30 September 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 9 October 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

17 August 2003
India seeks information on the Patriot anti-missile system from the United States and also seeks US approval for India’s participation in the Israeli Arrow anti-missile project. Indian Defense Ministry officials express confidence that the United States will provide an early response to India’s requests. Indian officials state that the request is part of an action plan to build an anti-missile system along India’s western border with Pakistan. The plan envisages at providing a rapid response capability to India’s armed forces in the event of a nuclear or conventional missile attack. The plan also calls for linking existing systems like the Low Level Transportable Radars from Israel with the still-to-be inducted Airborne Warning and Air Control System. Another component of the plan involves the linking of ground components with an indigenous spy satellite system. Indian Defense ministry officials state that the request for technical information on the Patriot system is important since India is planning to restart trials for the Trishul missile which was shelved recently. The Trishul missile, originally intended for surface-to-air multi-target role was later adapted as an anti-missile system after some technical breakthroughs. The project faced some problems after the imposition of US sanctions following the nuclear tests in May 1998. Defense scientists are also attempting to adapt the Akash missile as an anti-missile system.
—“India Plans an Early Indigenous Anti-Missile System,” Press Trust of India, 17 August 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 18 August 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.

19 August 2003
An Indian Defense Ministry official says that the tests for the Akash surface-to-air missile will continue and adds that the government plans to invest $500 million to procure other missile systems. The Akash missile system, based on the Russian SA-6 air defense system, is nearing completion. India is developing two versions of the Akash missile. One version has a range of 25 kilometers whereas the second version has a range of 60 kilometers.
—Bulbul Singh, “Indian Army Rejects Akash, Asks for Other Missiles,” Aerospace Daily, 19 August 2003, Vol. 207, No. 35, News, p. 5; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 21 August 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.

20 August 2003
Russia displays the aerial variant of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile at the International Aerospace Show (MAKS-2003) in Moscow. India and Russia are jointly developing the BrahMos cruise missile. Alexander Leonov, the Deputy Chief Designer of NPO Mashinostroyeniya says that flight-tests of the BrahMos will be completed in 2003 and serial production will begin simultaneously in India and Russia in 2004. The Indian and Russian production facilities can produce 100 BrahMos missiles annually. Mr. Leonov says that the BrahMos missile has been successfully tested in both inclined and vertical positions and also from the Indian warship INS Rajput. Mr. Leonov says that the displayed version of the missile is intended for the Sukhoi Su-30 MKI. The three Krivak class stealth frigates, which India recently acquired from Russia, can also be armed with BrahMos missiles. Mr. Leonov says that India and Russia plan to export the missile to some friendly countries; these countries have been indentified. Mr. Leonov, however, does not disclose the names of the countries.
—“Aerial Version of BrahMos on Display at Intl Aerospace Show,” Press Trust of India, 20 August 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 22 August 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

25 August 2003
Due to problems associated with the Trishul missile project, the Indian Navy decides to buy  more Barak systems at an estimated cost of Rs. 100 crore for each missile system. The Navy plans to equip other warships including the Brahmaputra class frigates with the Barak missile system. Indian defense sources indicate that the Trishul missile system, despite undergoing 70 tests, is still facing problems with the guidance, control, and propulsion systems. Sources indicate that the Navy plans to standardize the anti-ship defenses on the Barak missile system. The Navy also plans to use the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile as its primary anti-ship weapon. The BrahMos cruise missile is believed to be more advanced than the anti-ship missiles currently possessed by China and Pakistan.
—Rajat Pandit, “Trishul is Blunt, SO Naval Forces Seek Barak,” Times of India (Mumbai), 25 August 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 26 August 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

September 2003
The Indian Air Force invites bids for the supply of short-range surface-to-air missiles following the poor test results shown by the Trishul missile system.
— Bulbul Singh, “Firms Submit Bids to Supply Short-Range Missiles to India,” Aerospace Daily, 11 November 2003, Vol. 208, No. 30, News, p. 5; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 22 January 2004, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

2 September 2003
India’s Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee chairs a two hour meeting of the Political Council of the Nuclear Command Authority (NCA). The meeting is also attended by Deputy Prime Minister L.K. Advani, Defense Minister George Fernandes, Finance Minister Jaswant Singh, and National Security Advisor Brajesh Mishra and other top government and defense officials. The Political Council reviews the steps undertaken to setup the Strategic Forces Command (SFC) with emphasis on instituting the chain of command, the transfer of nuclear assets from the three services to the Strategic Forces Command, and the implementation of the Chief of Integrated Defense Staff (CIDS). The meeting also reviews the preparedness of the SFC with respect to the nuclear delivery systems and the meeting also examines the doctrine of the SFC.
—“India Holds High-Powered Meeting to Review Nuclear Deterrence,” Xinhua News Agency, 2 September 2003, World News, Political; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 3 September 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

4 September 2003
India’s Nuclear Command Authority (NCA) directs the military to transfer the control of the nuclear arsenal to the Strategic Forces Command (SFC) which was established in January 2003. The directive is issued after a meeting of the Political Council in which it is revealed that the command and control and warning systems and the infrastructure for the NCA are not operational. According to officials, the Indian armed forces are reluctant to transfer the nuclear arsenal to the SFC.
—Bulbul Singh, “Military Forces to Transfer Nuke Control to New Command,” Aerospace Daily, 4 September 2003, Vol. 207, No. 46, p. 5; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 19 September 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

5 September 2003
The United States is undecided on whether to allow the sale of the Israeli Arrow anti-missile system to India. The United States has neither denied nor approved the sale. The Arrow anti-missile system is jointly developed by Israel and the United States. The sale of the Arrow anti-missile system requires the approval of the United States. The White House and the Pentagon are believed to support the sale whereas the Department of State and the non-proliferation lobby in Washington DC oppose the sale. Pakistan has also expressed its concerns over the possible sale of the anti-missile system to India.
—C. Raja Mohan, “U.S. Holds Back Israeli Arrow,” Hindu (Chennai), 5 September 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 5 September 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

5 September 2003
The Director of the Defense Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) Dr. Prahlada says that the short-range surface-to-air Akash missile will be sent for user trials in 2004. Dr. Prahlada indicates that the Akash missile hit a flying target during the flight trials. He also says that the Trishul missile will also be tested and states that the dates for the test have not been finalized. Referring to the problems with the Trishul missile, Dr. Prahlada says that the missile faced a problem two years ago which was corrected subsequently.
—K.R. Sreenivas, “Akash, Nag to be Sent for User Trials in 2004,” Times of India (Mumbai), 6 September 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 September 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

7 September 2003
The Indian government approves the procurement of 30 additional nuclear-capable Prithvi missiles with 150-300 km range. The new Prithvi missiles will be propelled by solid fuel since the Army experts found solid propelled missiles to be more reliable and target oriented. The government also approves the purchase of additional missile launchers. Currently, each Army missile battalion has eight launchers. Defense officials also state that preparations are underway to test the 3,000 km Agni III and indicate that the missile will be tested in the first week of November. The government also approves the induction of the Agni I and Agni II missiles into the Strategic Forces Command (SFC). The location of headquarters, command structure, and location of alternate command are finalized and being implemented. The government also approves the transfer of the two Army missile battalions to the SFC. Officials indicate that these decisions were taken at the meeting of the Political Council last week.
—“Government to Procure More Prithvi Missiles,” Press Trust of India, 7 September 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 8 September 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.

8 September 2003
According to the Israeli newspaper Haaretz, the United States has blocked discussions between India and Israel on the possible sale of the Arrow anti-missile system. According to the news report, the United States has advised Israel’s Prime Minister Ariel Sharon not to offer the Arrow anti-missile system during his forthcoming visit to India.
—Atul Aneja, “U.S. Objects to Sale of Arrow Missiles to India,” Hindu (Chennai), 8 September 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 8 September 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

10 September 2003
Israel’s Deputy Prime Minister Yosef Lapid says that the United States is studying the proposal to sell the Arrow anti-missile system to India.
—“Israel Sale of “Arrow” Anti-Missiles Dependent on US Approval,” BBC Monitoring International Reports, 10 September 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 10 September 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

12 September 2003
Indian officials indicate that the 700km Agni I and 1,500 km Agni II are being inducted into the military. Officials also indicate that the 3,000 km range Agni III will be tested at an appropriate time.
—“Agni Missiles Being Inducted into Armed Forces,” Press Trust of India, 12 September 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 12 September 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

21 September 2003
The chief of the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) Dr. V.K. Aatre will lead a high-level delegation to Israel in early October. Senior officials in India’s Ministry of Defense state that the visit is a follow-up to the negotiations held with the head of the Ministry of Defense Exports Maj. Gen. Amos Mayer. The negotiations were held during the visit of Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon’s visit to India. Officials indicate that India is seeking cooperation in developing the short-range sea-skimming missile and developing a new inertial navigation system. According to officials, the delegation will also seek cooperation in developing long-range missiles like the 3,000 km Agni III. The agenda for the meeting also includes collaboration to revive the surface-to-air Akash missile system and the Trishul missile system. The Ministry of Defense does not provide any official notice about the proposed trip.
—“Indian Defence Team to Visit Israel for Help on Missile Program: Report,” Agence France Presse, 21 September 2003, International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 22 September 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “DRDO Team Visiting Israel to Explore Defence Collaboration,” Financial Express (Mumbai), 21 September 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 21 September 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

23 September 2003
The Indian government sanctions the transfer of two new Agni missile groups to the Army in order to expedite the process of operationalizing the deployment of short- and medium- range Agni missiles. The new 334 missile group will be armed with the 700km range Agni I missile and the 335 missile group will be armed with the 1,500km Agni II missile. The new missile groups are expected to be raised near Secunderabad in Andhra Pradesh. Bharat Dynamics Ltd. (BDL), the organization which produces missiles is located in Secunderabad. The Army has already allocated manpower for the new missile groups even though the government is yet to release funds for the missile groups. Sources indicate that the new missile groups have been allocated to the Army since the newly formed Strategic Forces Command (SFC) is not yet operational. The government also approves the creation of two new Prithvi missile groups, named 444 and 555 missile groups. Currently, the Army has deployed two Prithvi missile groups, namely the 222 and the 333 missile groups. Officials indicate that the new Prithvi missile groups will become operational by 2005 and the missile groups will be raised in Secunderabad contingent on the funds allocated by the Ministry of Finance. Until now, only the 333 Prithvi missile group is complete and has been shifted along with the 40th artillery division to a permanent location in Madhya Pradesh. The 333 missile group is armed with liquid-propellant Prithvi missiles. The new Prithvi missile groups will have solid fuel motors, which will reduce the need for mobile fuel toppers, needed for liquid-fueled missiles, by one-third. According to highly placed sources, a large number of Navy and Air Force personnel, apart from the Army personnel, are undergoing training to use various surface-to-surface missiles. According to a forthcoming article in the defense magazine Force, the Indian government plans to use only conventional warheads on Prithvi missiles and use it to attack the enemy’s strategic reserves and degrade the enemy theater. According to the article, the government plans to keep the Agni as the mainstay of its nuclear deterrence. The report says that the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) has not equipped the Prithvi missile with incendiary warheads and blast-cum-earth shock submunitions. Moreover, the government has also not approved arming the missiles with fuel-air explosives.
—“Indian Govt. to Hand Over Agni Missiles to Army,” Press Trust of India, 2 September 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 23 September 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

24 September 2003
India’s Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee plans to meet US President George Bush in New York and discuss cooperation in missile defense issues. According to senior Indian Defense Ministry officials, Prime Minister Vajpayee is expected to inform President Bush that the transfer of missile defense technology will lead to greater regional stability. According to the Defense Ministry officials, the initial disagreements within the government over the US missile defense system have given way to a consensus on the issue. Over the past two years, India and the United States have held four rounds of informal dialog on missile defense issues.
—Bulbul Singh, “Vajpayee to Promote Cooperation on Missile Defenses with US,” Aerospace Daily, 24 September 2003, Vol. 207, No. 58, News, p. 2; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 2 October 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

28 September 2003
The Vice-Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Shantonu Choudhary says that the Army will soon deploy the 700km range Agni I and the 1,500km range Agni II. Lt. Gen Choudhary says that the artillery regiment has already deployed the short-range Prithvi missile with a range of 225 km. He also sys that the Army has created a separate missile regiment in the artillery which will be armed with the Agni I, Agni II, and the Prithvi missiles. Defense Ministry officials indicate that the 333 Prithvi missile group is armed with liquid-propelled missiles which can carry a payload of 1,000 kg over 150 km. Officials say that the 333 missile group has two independent sub-groups which can be deployed independently. Official sources also reveal that the 3,000 km range Agni III will be test-fired towards the end of 2003.
—“Agni Missiles Inducted into Army Soon,” Press Trust of India, 28 September 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 28 September 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

7 October 2003
The Chief of Air Staff S. Krishnaswamy says that India has started efforts to build weapon platforms in space. Mr. Krishnaswamy says that India has to possess a space command since advanced countries are moving towards having laser weapon platforms in space. About six months back Indian parliamentarians expressed concern over the lack of efforts to build an aerospace command to manage space-based military assets. Mr. Krishnaswamy also acknowledges the presence of problems with the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP) and says that there are temporary delays in the development of quick reaction and medium-range missiles. According to Mr. Krishnaswamy, the surface-to-air Akash missile faced problems with its two-stage ramjet propulsion technology. He says that the Air Force plans to procure imported missiles as a makeshift solution.
—“IAF Working on Weapon Platforms in Space,” Hindu (Chennai), 7 October 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 October 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Robert Wall, “India Eyes Weaponizing Space,” Aviation Week& Space Technology, 13 October 2003, Vol. 159, No. 15, In Defense, p. 51; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 October 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

15 October 2003
A source in the Russian Defense Ministry says that preparations are being completed for testing the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile before the end of 2003.
—“Next Launch of Russian-Indian Cruise Missile Set for End of 2003,” BBC Monitoring International Reports, 15 October 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 15 October 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>

15 October 2003
A spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs criticizes US Department of State spokesperson Richard Boucher for including India in his comments on Pakistan’s missile test. The spokesperson says “he [Richard Boucher] ought to have confined himself to reacting to that test rather than cluttering up what he had to say by thinly disguised, unwarranted references to India.” Earlier on 14 October, Richard Boucher, in his comments on Pakistan’s test-firing of the Shaheen-1 ballistic missile, asked India and Pakistan to restrain their missile programs.
—“India Blasts ‘Cluttered’ US Missile Reaction,” Times of India (Mumbai), 17 October 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 16 October 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>

17 October 2003
Indian police arrest Hans Raj Shiv, the Director of Indian NEC Engineers Private Ltd, for allegedly exporting banned chemicals to Iraq. Mr. Shiv is believed to have exported 10 shipments of equipment that included titanium vessels and centrifugal pumps. Titanium is often used to build the casings and warheads for missiles. The total worth of the equipment is estimated at $ 800,000. Earlier in February 2003, the United States imposed sanctions on Hans Raj Shiv and his company for violating laws that prohibited trading chemical and biological weapons.
—“Indian Police Arrest Man for Alleged Export of Chemicals to Iraq,” Agence France Presse, 18 October 2003, International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 19 October 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>

29 October 2003
The chief of the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) Dr. V.K. Aatre says that the test of the 3,000km range Agni III has been postponed till January 2004. Dr. Aatre says that the preparations for the tests are “in full swing.” Dr. Aatre indicates that the Trishul missile project will be revived after the completion of the user trials for the Akash missile.
—“India to Put Off Agni III Missile Till Next Year,” Xinhua News Agency, 29 October 2003, World News, Political; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 30 October 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

29 October 2003
India test-fires the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile at 11.20 AM IST for the fourth time from the Interim Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur-on-sea on India’s eastern coast. According to sources from the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), the test was primarily conducted to establish the precision guidance capability in the surface-to-surface version. The sources indicate that the test achieved all the mission objectives. The ground range instrumentation at ITR and the ships located at the impact point tracked the missile’s parameters. The missile was test-fired to a range of 290 km with precision impact on the target point. According to Dr. A. Sivathanu Pillai, the Chief Controller of Research & Development at DRDO and the Managing Director for the Indo-Russian joint venture, the test was aimed to verify the precision guidance system and the fire control system. The DRDO recently announced that the BrahMos missile will be ready for commercial production and induction into the armed forces within the next two years.
—“Brahmos Flight Tested,” Press Trust of India, 29 October 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 29 October 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “India Says World’s First Supersonic Cruise Missile Test a Success,” Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 29 October 2003, Politics; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 29 October 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Bulbul Singh, “India Conducts Flight Test of Supersonic BrahMos Missile,” Aerospace Daily, 30 October 2003, Vol. 208, No. 22, News, p. 6; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 4 November 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “Brahmos Test-Fired Successfully,” Times of India (Mumbai), 31 October 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 31 October 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.

4 November 2003
P. Mohandas, the Chairman of Bharat Dynamics Ltd (BDL) says that even though the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) undertakes development of  missile systesms, the BDL is engaged in concurrent engineering to produce the missiles quickly. Mr. Mohandas states that the surface-to-air Akash missile is at an advanced stage of development and also says that the surface-to-air Trishul missile is being tested. Mr. Mohandas says that BDL is planning to export missiles that are not part of the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP).
—“Company Asked t Refurbish Missiles to Enhance Reliability,” Press Trust of India, 4 November  2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 4 November 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “Bharat Dynamics Aims to Double Turnover,” Business Line (Chennai), 5 November 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 5 November 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>

6 November 2003
Kerala Hitech Industries Ltd (Keltec), owned by the Government of Kerala, integrates the manufacture of titanium gas bottles and Secondary Injection Thrust Vector Control (SITVC) tanks which are used in the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) as well as other satellite launch vehicles. The company has handed over the first batch of products to the Vikram Sarabhai Space Center (VSSC). Earlier, the production of titanium gas bottles was done at three different places. The hemisphere pressing was performed at Bharat Heavy Plate & Vessels (BHPV) in Hyderabad, the machining and welding was done at Keltec, and finally pressure testing was done at VSSC. The Managing Director for Keltec Mr. Johnson Peter says that Keltec has developed the technology to produce 600mm, 400mm, and 370mm diameter titanium gas bottles. Titanium gas bottles are used for storing high-pressure helium gas in satellite launch vehicles. In a similar fashion, the manufacture of SITVC tanks was performed at various facilities. The fabrication was done at VSSC, the aluminum coating was done at Bharat Heavy Electronics Ltd. (BHEL) in Hyderabad, and finally the pressure testing is done at VSSC. Mr. Peter says that the integration of the manufacturing process will result in a reduction of production costs and also ensure better delivery schedules.
—“Keltec Integrates Titanium Gas Bottles Production,” Business Line (Chennai), 6 November 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 November 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

9 November 2003
India test-fires the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile for the fifth time around 12.30 PM (IST) at the Interim Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur-on-sea on India’s eastern coast. The missile is fired from a mobile launcher. Following the test of the precision guidance capability in the previous test-launch on October 29, today’s launch is aimed at testing other parameters.
—“India Test Fires Supersonic BrahMos Missile,” Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 9 November 2003, Miscellaneous; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 10 November 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “’Brahmos’ Successfully Test Fired,” Press Trust of India, 9 November 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 9 November 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

11 November 2003
Seven international firms submit bids for the supply of short-range surface-to-air missiles for the Indian Air Force (IAF). The IAF requested the tenders from foreign suppliers following the poor results by the Trishul missile system. The foreign fims include France’s MBDA and Thales, Russia’s Rosoboronexport, Switzerland’s Oerlikon Contraves, and South Africa’s Denel. A senior Air Force official says that the government plans to procure missiles worth $ 250 million within a year under a fast-track program. The Air Force plans to test the missile system during January and February next year and place orders by April 2004.
—Bulbul Singh, “Firms Submit Bids to Supply Short-Range Missiles to India,” Aerospace Daily, 11 November 2003, Vol. 208, No. 30, News, p. 5; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 22 January 2004, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

11 November 2003
India plans to buy 100 BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles over the next decade and Russia plans to purchase 60 missiles.
— Bulbul Singh, “Firms Submit Bids to Supply Short-Range Missiles to India,” Aerospace Daily, 11 November 2003, Vol. 208, No. 30, News, p. 5; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 22 January 2004, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

16 – 22 November 2003
The Barak anti-missile defense system fails to hit the target twice in the trials conducted off the coast of Mumbai. In both instances, the Barak missile interceptor fails to hit a Russian surface-to-surface missile with a deactivated warhead. The spokesperson from the Indian Navy refuses to comment on the incident. The Indian Navy plans to acquire at least eight Barak missile systems from Israel at an estimated cost of Rs. 1,000 crore. Officials from the Indian Navy, Rafael, and Israeli Aircraft Industries are working to fix the problem. Highly-placed Indian defense officials characterize the problem as “temporary” in nature.
—“Israeli Showpiece Anti-Missile System Fails Navy’s Tests, Hard Work Ahead,” Indian Express (Mumbai), 23 November 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 24 November 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

19 November 2003
India and the United States agree to sign a Master Information Exchange Agreement (MIEA) that will allow the sharing of classified research data and increase technical cooperation between the two countries. Officials from the Pentagon and the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) discuss the peaceful uses of nuclear energy and sharing of data on missiles, especially data on US experiments with anti-missile systems. The decision to sign the MIEA is taken during the third meeting of the Indo-US Joint Technical Group.
—“Classified Data Transfer Accord with US Soon,” Financial Express (Mumbai), 19 November 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 20 November 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

21 November 2003
US Under-Secretary for Department of Commerce Kenneth Juster and India’s Foreign Secretary Kanwal Sibal discuss the “quartet issues” namely, civilian nuclear cooperation, civilian space cooperation, high-technology exports, and missile defense. The details of the discussions are not revealed. Mr. Juster says that the “framework” of nuclear and missile nonproliferation regimes is of interest to India even though India is not a signatory to the nuclear and missile treaties.
—“Hi-Tech Cooperation Group: Quartet Issues Discussed,” Indian Express (Mumbai), 21 November 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 21 November 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

21 November 2003
Alexander Baskakov, the Managing Director for BrahMos Aerospace Ltd, says that India and Russia will finish testing the BrahMos cruise missile and initiate batch production of the missile. Mr. Baskakov says that the BrahMos will remain the best anti-ship missile for the next 10-15 years against which there is no defense. The missile assembly is ongoing at Hyderabad. The first batch of the BrahMos missiles will be available for sale in 2004. Countries in East and Southeast Asia have expressed interest in buying the missile.
—Yuri Sidorov, “Russia, India to Start BrahMos Missile Production in 2004,” Tass, 21 November 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 22 November 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

23 November 2003
India successfully test-fires the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile for the sixth time. The missile is fired from a moving warship INS Rajput which was cruising at about 12 to 15 knots an hour in the Bay of Bengal towards a moving decommissioned ship at a distance of 290 km. Another warship INS Kalinga monitors the point of impact. Dr. A. Sivathanu Pillai, the Chief Controller of Research & Development at the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) says that different versions of the BrahMos will be tested in the next few days following which the missile will be produced and inducted. The test involved two warships from the Eastern Naval Command. An Indian Navy official says that three more tests will be conducted against moving targets. The Indian Navy has estimated that it will require about 75 BrahMos cruise missiles and the Indian Army has estimated that it will require 50 BrahMos missiles.
—“Brahmos Test Fired Successfully,” Press Trust of India, 23 November 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 1 December 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Bulbul Singh, “BrahMos Cruise Missile Test-Fired from Destroyer,” Aerospace Daily, 1 December 2003, Vol. 208, No. 42, News, p. 2; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 4 December 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; T.S. Subramanian, “Anti-Ship Version of BrahMos Proves its Mettle,” Hindu (Chennai), 3 December 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 2 December 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

26 November 2003
India and Israel sign a $100 million deal to transfer the third consignment of the Barak missile system. According to the Israeli newspaper Haaretz, the Barak missile system failed once in the tests conducted by the Indian Navy. According to the report, the back-up missile fired accurately and hit the target. Sources from the Israeli Aircraft Industries (IAI) say the failure was caused by a problem in the communication frequencies of the missile and the warship. The failure could also be attributed to a failure in the missiles guidance system. The radar for the Barak missile system is mounted on a ship’s mast and it provides warning about cruise missiles, smart bombs, and helicopters. Each warship with a Barak missile system is equipped with 32 all-weather missiles and each missile weighs about 100kg.
—Atul Aneja, “India, Israel to Sign $100 Million Missile Deal,” Hindu (Chennai); in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 26 November 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

3 December 2003
Indian Defense sources indicate that the BrahMos cruise missile can be launched from submarines. According to the sources, the ground-launched, the ship-launched, and the submarine-launched versions of the missile do not have the same design. According to the sources, the air-launched version of the missile needs additional development since the missile will be launched from a platform moving at great speeds and hence the missile should have less weight. Sources indicate that the development for the air-launched version of the missile will take about three years.
—T.S. Subramanian, “Anti-Ship Version of BrahMos Proves its Mettle,” Hindu (Chennai), 3 December 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 2 December 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

4 December 2003
India’s Defense Minister George Fernandes informs India’s lower house of parliament (Lok Sabha) that the government has not decided to abandon the Akash surface-to-air missile project. Mr. Fernandes says that the missile faced some technical problems in the subsystems which have been corrected. Mr. Fernandes says that user trials are planned to be held next year.
—“India Conveys Concerns to Sri Lanka,” Press Trust of India, 4 December 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 4 December 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

5 December 2003
The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) says that it has tested a cryogenic engine by firing it for 1,000 seconds on the ground. The ISRO test exceeds the usual requirement of 721 seconds of firing time for such tests. The long-duration endurance test is conducted at ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Center at Mahendragiri in Tamil Nadu in South India. An ISRO press release says that the 7.1 metric ton-thrust engine was fired simultaneously with two 400 kg thrust cryogenic engines that were mounted on a single-block. An ISRO press release says that the organization has obtained the technology to launch high-altitude satellites and undertake manned lunar missions.
—“India Masters Rocket Technology to Send a Man to the Moon: Space Agency has 2015 Target Date After Successful Test of Cryogenic Engines,” Gazette (Montreal, Quebec), 6 December 2003, News, p. A27; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 December 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; Frank Morring Jr., “Indian Engine,” Aviation Week & Space Technology, Vol. 159, No. 24, In Orbit, p. 17; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 6 December 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

7 December 2003
The BrahMos supersonic cruise missile is ready for mass production and the BrahMos Aerospace Private Ltd. Awaits orders from the Indian Defense Ministry to commence production. Dr. A. Sivathanu Pillai, the CEO of BrahMos Aerospace Pvt. Ltd. and the Chief Controller for Research & Development at the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), says that the BrahMos missile can be produced and sold to countries friendly to India and Russia. Dr. Pillai says that the Indian and Russian governments will identify the countries to which the missile can be sold.
—Ch. Sushil rao, “Brahmos Firm Waits for Orders,” Times of India (Mumbai), 7 December 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 9 December 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

11 December 2003
India’s Defense Minister George Fernandes informs the lower house of parliament (Lok Sabha) that the flight tests for the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile met all the test objectives and states that the missile has proved its performance. An Indian official says that the production and induction of the missile will begin within six months.
—Rajat Pandit, “Brahmos on Deployment Track,” Times of India (Mumbai), 14 December 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 13 December 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

15 December 2003
Dr. V.K. Saraswat, the Director of Research Center Imarat (RCI), says that an air defense system, called Programme AD, with a centralized command, control, and communication structure and connected to several mission control units throughout the country to detect incoming enemy aircraft and missiles will become operational by the end of 2004. Dr. Saraswat discloses that a portion of the system is already operational and is currently undergoing tests with simulated batteries and radars. The RCI is developing the air defense system in conjunction with other defense laboratories including the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). Dr Saraswat says that the after all the control missions are connected to the central command, control, and communication, the interceptor missile can be fired from the missile batteries to meet the incoming missile or aircraft. Dr. Saraswat says that RCI has also developed the high-speed Scramjet engine which is currently undergoing tests. Dr. Saraswat projects that the engine will be operational in another two or three years. After the completion of tests on the engine, the RCI will develop an airframe for the aircraft that can withstand temperatures as high as 3000 degree calvin. Dr. Saraswat says that several defense laboratories including the Defense Materials Research Laboratory (DMRL) are engaged in developing the airframe using silicon carbide based composites. Dr. Saraswat indicates that the scramjet technology will be used to launch satellites into low earth orbits (LEO) which will result in a reduction in the cost for launching satellites. He says that the RCI is also working on developing an advanced accurate navigation and control system and terminal guidance system with imaging seekers that will allow air and land based missiles and aircraft to conduct precision strikes. He adds that the technology will allow missiles to have zero circular error probability (CEP) or zero miss-distance system. According to Dr. Saraswat, RCI is also working on a project to create a low cost navigation system for precision-guided sub-munitions which will allow a missile to carry 20 sub-munitions to be able to target 20 separate targets.
—Y. Mallikarjun, “Indigenous Air Defense System to be Operational Next Year,” Hindu (Chennai), 15 December 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 14 December 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “RCI Launches Defence System, Programme AD (Will Help to Intercept Incoming Aircraft or Missiles),” India Business Insight (Bangalore), 15 December 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 18 December 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

15 December 2003
The Director of the Defense Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) Dr. Prahlada says that the DRDO will test the surface-to-air Trishul missile system for the last phase of trials. He says that last year the missile had some problems with the guidance system which were corrected later. Dr. Prahlada indicates that the current tests are conducted to test the improved guidance system. According to Dr. Prahlada, the Air Force has shown interest in the planned missile tests which will involve live warheads. Dr. Prahlada indicates that the planned series of tests will be a week long exercise involving 4 tests. He also adds that the air defense project is progressing well.
—“DRDO to Conduct Trishul Missile Trials This Week,” Press Trust of India, 15 December 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 15 December 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

17 December 2003
The Director of Research Center Imarat (RCI) Dr. V.K. Saraswat, speaking at the inauguration of a seminar-cum-exhibition on “Aerospace Technologies – Challenges in the Millennium,” says that India is focusing on developing re-usable rockets and precision strike weapons. Dr. Saraswat adds that the future trends in missile technology are in developing “hit-to-kill” missiles with a high degree of precision which do not damage surrounding buildings and kill civilians. He adds that several companies in Hyderabad possess the ability to make several precision components needed for aviation and aerospace industry.
—“Aerospace Research Focus on Reusable Rockets,” Economic Times (Mumbai), 17 December 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 17 December 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

17 December 2003
India’s Defense Minister George Fernandes informs the upper house of parliament (Rajya Sabha) that the Israeli Barak missile system will undergo retrials since the previous round of trials were declared “unsatisfactory.” Mr. Fernandes says that even though the missile hit the target successfully during the previous test, the test revealed certain technical malfunctions. According to Mr. Fernandes Israeli experts analyzed the failures and a new round of tests will be held shortly. Mr. Fernandes says that India is still importing surface-to-air missiles from Russia. He, however, refuses to divulge details about the current state of India’s indigenous air defense system citing the sensitive nature of such information.
—“India to Conduct Retrial of Israeli Missile Defence System,” BBC Monitoring International Reports, 17 December 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 17 December 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

18 December 2003
The Indian government proceeds cautiously on acquiring Israeli Barak anti-missile system for the Indian Navy. According to an Indian Navy official, the failure of the Barak missile system during its trials has made it tougher for the missile system to be used on the Russian aircraft carrier Admiral Gorshkov that was recently purchased by India.
—Bulbul Singh, “India Postpones Contract for Barak Missile System,” Aerospace Daily, 18 December 2003, Vol. 208, No. 55, p. 2; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 24 December 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>.

18 December 2003
India test-fires the short-range surface-to-air Trishul missile from the Interim Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur-on-sea on India’s eastern coast. Officials describe the test as a success. The missile is fired at a moving target.
—“India Tests Short-Range Surface-to-Air Missile,” Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 18 December 2003, Politics; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 18 December 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “India Test-Fires Trishul Surface-to-Air Missile,” BBC Monitoring International Reports, 19 December 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 19 December 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

19 December 2003
India tests the short-range surface-to-air Trishul missile twice from the Interim Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur-on-sea on India’s eastern coast. The first test is conducted at 11.20 AM IST and the second test is conducted at 2.45 PM IST. According to various sources, in one of the tests the missile was targeted at a moving object dropped from an AN-32 aircraft. According to sources, the trials are aimed at evaluating the accuracy and other parameters of the missile. The missile is three meters long and measures 200cm in width. The Trishul missile flies at supersonic speeds. Both the tests are declared as successful.
—“India Test-Fires Trishul Surface-to-Air Missile,” BBC Monitoring International Reports, 19 December 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 19 December 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “Trishul Test-Fired,” Hindu (Chennai), 19 December 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 19 December 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “India Tests Trishul Missile for Third Time in Two Days,” Pakistan Newswire, 19 December 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 21 December 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

21 December 2003
For the fourth time in three days, India test-fires the short-range surface-to-air Trishul missile at 1.00 PM IST from the Interim Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur-on-sea on India’s eastern coast. The missile is fired from a mobile launcher at a moving target. Officials indicate that the current tests are aimed at testing the accuracy of the Trishul missile system.
—“India Tests Anti-Aircraft Missile Four Times in Three Days,” Agence France Presse, 20 December 2003, International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 21 December 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>; “India Test Fires 4th Surface-to-Air Missile Trishul,” Xinhua News Agency, 21 December 2003, World News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 21 December 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

21 December 2003
India plans to conduct additional flight-tests for the Trishul missile system in the next two weeks. The tests will be witnessed by top officials from the Air Force who have expressed keen interest in the current series of tests. According to informed sources, the Air Force has not allocated funds to procure foreign short-range surface-to-air missile systems.
—T.S. Subramanian, “Successful Trishul Tests Boost DRDO,” Hindu (Chennai), 21 December 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 20 December 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

22 December 2003
The Indian Defense Ministry says that the Trishul missile system was successfully test-fired with a new guidance system and states that it will not buy an equivalent foreign missile system. A series of tests for the Trishul missile are planned to fine-tune the guidance system. Earlier, India invited bids from foreign companies to supply short-range surface-to-air air defense systems. A Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) scientist says that the new guidance system has been developed since the announcement. According to officials, India will not procure foreign missile systems following the successful testing of the Trishul missile with the new guidance system The recent tests for the Trishul missile included skimming tests for the Navy. The Army and the Air Force will also be provided with the missile. A DRDO scientist points out that compared to the existing Russian short-range surface-to-air missiles, the Trishul missile has a shorter reaction time and a superior control system. According to the scientist, the Trishul missile is capable of turning through 360 degrees in four seconds and its high-frequency and advanced guidance system makes it resistant to electronic countermeasures.
—Bulbul Singh, “Trishul’s New Guidance System Passes Tests, India Claims,” Aerospace Daily, 22 December 2003, Vol. 208, No. 57, p. 6; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 24 December 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

22 December 2003
India and Israel negotiate on developing closer relationships in defense production especially in the areas of missiles, surveillance, and anti-terrorism warfare technology. Major General Amos Yaron, Director General in Israel’s Ministry of Defense, leads the 11-member Israeli delegation. Major General Yaron meets Defense Secretary Ajay Prasad in a one-on-one meeting and also holds delegation-level talks with the Indian delegation. Major General Yaron also meets India’s Army Chief N.C. Vij, the Chief of Air Staff S. Krishnamurthy. According to sources in the defense ministry, the talks focused on several Indo-Israeli projects including the Phalcon Airborne Radar, missile development, radar avionics, and anti-terrorism warfare equipment. Defense sources also indicate that cooperation in the area of missiles only included missiles that do not fall under the purview of the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR).
—“India, Israel Discuss Defence Cooperation,” Press Trust of India, 22 December 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 22 December 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

25 December 2003
The Managing Director and CEO of Brahmos Aerospace Dr. A. Sivathanu Pillai says that the production of the naval version of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile will begin in January 2004. Dr. Pillai says that the BrahMos missile is capable of hitting a target nine times more powerfully than a subsonic missile.  According to Dr. Pillai, BrahMos Aerospace is planning to increase the capital of $250 million in order to develop the land-based version of the BrahMos missile. Dr. Pillai says that the Air Force version of the missile will be developed after the completion of the development of the land-based Army version of the missile.
—“Brahmos Supersonic Cruise Missile Production in New Year,” Press Trust of India, 25 December 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 28 December 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

27 December 2003
Dr. A. Sivathanu Pillai, the CEO and Managing Director of BrahMos Aerospace and the Chief Controller of Research & Development for the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), says that the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile is ready for production and adds that the commercial production for the missile will begin in 2004. Dr. Pillai states that the joint Indo-Russian BrahMos cruise missile project represents the first project of its type and describes it as a symbol of true strategic partnership between India and Russia. Dr. Pillai adds that the top priority accorded for the project by the Indian government enabled the team to complete the project in half the projected time. He adds that the government will benefit greatly from its investment in the project. Dr. Pillai, without revealing the invested amount, says that the missile will provide great returns since it is cheap and has excellent quality. Dr. Pillai says that the two governments should arrive at a decision on prospective buyers since the missile is essentially a weapon.
—“Brahmos Missile Set for Production,” Business Line (Chennai), 28 December 2003; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 29 December 2003, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

31 December 2003
The Scientific Advisor to the Defense Minister Dr. V.K. Aatre says that the 3,000 km range Agni III will be tested sometime during the next three months. Dr. Aatre denies any collaboration with Israel on missiles. Dr. Aatre also indicates that technical problems associated with the Akash missile system have been corrected and says that the missile will be tested in March 2004.
—“Agni III to be Test Fired in Three Months,” Press Trust of India, 31 December 2003, Nationwide International News; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 1 January 2004, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>.

	Updated January 2005