1 January 2004
India reportedly plans to fly a hypersonic plane in 2007. An eight-meter technology demonstrator is being built by the Defense Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL) in Hyderabad; and it will be powered by a “Scramjet” engine that takes in oxygen from the atmosphere and burns liquid hydrogen. According to DRDL sources India has made considerable progress in mastering air-breathing engine technology (ramjet) at sub-sonic speeds through its Akash surface-to-air missile program, but has yet to master technology at supersonic speed up to 7 mach. DRDL is closely collaborating with other institutions including the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) and Indian Institute of Sciences (IISc) to develop nickel cobalt and carbon composite materials for the hypersonic plane project. The hypersonic prototype would be a precursor to the Defense Research & Development Organization’s (DRDO) Aerobic Vehicle for Hypersonic Aerospace Transportation (AVATAR).
—“Hypersonic,” Press Trust of India, 1 January 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 1 January 2004.

1 January 2004
According to the Director of India’s Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) Dr. V.K. Aatre, India will test the 3,000km-range Agni-III ballistic missile in 2004. In addition, the BrahMos missile, which India has jointly developed with Russia, has been cleared for induction into the Indian Navy (IN). DRDO will also begin work on a version of the BrahMos for the Indian Air Force (IAF); and the air force version of the missile will likely be carried aboard the SU-30MK1 that the IAF has acquired from Russia. Aatre also says that the  DRDO has explored possibilities for joint research and development with Israel for electronic warfare and sensors for the India’s Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV).
—“Govt. to testfire Agni this year,” Indian Express, 1 January 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 1 January 2004.

2 January 2004
According to sources the Agni-III ballistic missile will be tested in the next three or four months. Further, India’s Nuclear Command Authority chaired by the prime minister has issued directions for the operationalization of India’s land-based Agni missile groups, fighter bombers, and sea-based platforms as soon as possible. A scheduled test of the Agni-III in late 2003 was delayed due to technical problems. Those problems have since been rectified.
—Rajat Pandit, “India to test-fire Agni-III soon,” Times of India, 2 January 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>, 1 January 2004.

6 January 2004
According Dr. V.K. Saraswat, Director of the Research Center Imarat (RCI), India’s Scramjet engine should be ready by 2006 and will thereafter be integrated into an airframe capable of withstanding temperatures up to 3,000˚ Kelvin.
—“India’s RCI airs new research information,” Flight International, 6 January 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 13 January 2004.

12 January 2004
The United States releases text of the “Next Steps in Strategic Partnership with India.” Under the agreement, the United States and India agree to expand cooperation in the areas of nuclear activities, civilian space programs, and high-technology trade. The proposed cooperation will proceed through a series of mutually reinforcing reciprocal steps. Cooperation will involve nuclear safety and regulatory issues, missile defense, and enhanced cooperation in peaceful uses of space technology. The two counties will also undertake measures at the bilateral and multilateral levels to strengthen laws, regulations, and procedures to combat the spread of weapons of mass destruction.
—“Next Steps in Strategic Partnership with India,” White House Press Releases, 12 January 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 13 January 2004.

13 January 2004
The Indian Army is reportedly raising two special missile groups – 444 and 555 – for the induction of the Agni-I and Agni-II ballistic missiles. The 555 Missile Group is responsible for the Agni-II. According to the Indian sources, the Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) has transferred technology related to the production of both missiles to Bharat Dynamics Limited, Hyderabad. However, the Army has still not gained possession of the Agni-I.
—“India’s Agni-I missile yet to be handed over to Army,” BBC Monitoring, 13 January 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com/>, 13 January 2004.

23 January 2004
The Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) flight-tests the short-range Prithvi ballistic missile from the Interim Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur in Orissa state. A DRDO press statement says that India’s ballistic missile defense program has entered the flight evaluation phase with the firing of “its first missile” from the integrated test range. The statement further says “the missile and the ground elements such as multifunction surveillance radar, tracking, fire control radar, command, control and communication system and launch control systems performed to specification in real time meeting all mission objectives.”
—“Prithvi,” Press Trust of India, 23 January 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 23 January 2004.

23 January 2004
India flight-tests a short-range Prithvi ballistic missile to evaluate how quickly fuel can be loaded in the missile’s fuel tanks as well to test a newly acquired simulator to train missile crews.
—“India tests Prithvi missile to study fuel loading,” Aerospace Daily, 26 January 2004; inLexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 29 January 2004.

3 February 2004
India has begun research and development on a two-stage reusable space vehicle which will be capable of taking off and landing like an aircraft. The vehicle, which is named Avatar, would be able to deploy a 1,000kg payload into lower-earth orbit. The Avatar project is expected to cost about $2 billion and development is likely to take a decade. An Indian defense ministry official says that the vehicle will be capable of performing at least 100 re-entries and is primarily intended as “a reusable missile launcher, one which can launch missiles, land,...and be loaded again for more missions.” Vehicles sub-systems such as the Scramjet engine have already been tested at the Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) laboratories.”
—Bulbul Singh, “India begins development work on Avatar space vehicle,” Aerospace Daily, 3 February 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 5 February 2004.

4 February 2004
According to Alexander Baskakov, Managing Director of the Russian side of the joint Russo-Indian BrahMos missile project, the BrahMos is a general purpose missile fit for any type of basing. The missile has a range of about 300km, its warhead weighs 200kg, and its velocity ranges from 160-800 meters per second. India and Russia only took one-and-a-half years to proceed to the development testing of the missile. Baskakov says that the missile is now ready for deployment on Indian navy surface and submarine platforms; plans are also afoot to produce a modified version of the missile for the air force. In addition, India and Russia, which are jointly co-producing the missile, plan to export it to countries in South-East and East Asia. However, the list of potential customers could be expanded in the future.
—Yuri Sidorov and Vladimir Shvarev, “Russo-Indian ‘BrahMos’ missiles proves its effectiveness,” ITAR-TASS News Agency, 4 February 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 5 February 2004.

4 February 2004
A group of 15 private US arms dealers begin talks with India on potential arms sales. A senior Vice President of the US Chambers of Commerce says that “over the next three days we will take a closer look at the potential for sales of sophisticated new technologies, shore our ideas about measures that can be taken by both governments to strengthen bilateral defense cooperation, explore potential modalities…for co-development of advanced technologies.” Retired US General Daniel Christman tells reporters that “on missile defense, US corporations are looking at the supply of Patriot missiles…maybe there would be talks on that.” Christman also dismisses fears in India concerning potential disruptions in the supply of critical components in the event of a US sanctions regime as happened in 1998; and says, “the pact between President Bush and Prime Minister Vajpayee has altered the strategic partnership and so there would be no light switch diplomacy.” Major US companies participating in India’s Defexpo 2004 exhibition include Raytheon, GE Aircraft Engines, General Dynamics, Honeywell, ATK Thiokol, and Northrop Grumman.
—US arms makers to offer high-tech military hardware to India,” Agence France Presse, 4 February 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 5 February 2004; “DEFEXPO-US,” Press Trust of India, 4 February 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 4 February 2004.

5 February 2004
Indian Defense Minister George Fernandes informs parliament that the Barak anti-missile system that India obtained from Israel, malfunctioned during trials. The malfunction was analyzed by the equipment manufacturer and rectified. Subsequently, the Barak system successfully engaged and destroyed a low-flying surface-to-surface missile in a test on 21 January.
—PAR-LS Questions,” Press Trust of India, 5 February 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 5 February 2004. 

5 February 2004
According to the Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO), the supersonic BrahMos cruise missile is ready for deployment at sea. DRDO chief Dr. V.K. Aatre claims that the missile’s guidance system was developed by India entirely, with Russia carrying out systems integration. The land-based version of the 290km missile is capable of deploying both conventional and nuclear warheads. The DRDO is also developing an air-launched version of the missile with a reduced length and diameter to allow it to be fitted on the recently acquired Russian SU-30MK1 combat aircraft. DRDO officials claim that a number of tests of the land version of the solid-fuel BrahMos have been conducted at the Interim Test Range (ITR) in Balasore. The land-based version of the BrahMos is a “single vehicle weapon carrying three missiles in containers with launch readiness time of five minutes.” The land-based missiles are capable of operation in a nuclear and biological environment and the carriers are fitted with hydraulic launcher control systems with the option for using remote instruments. Engineers at the DRDO’s RDE facility in Pune have developed an indigenous heavy-duty tatra-based carrier to give the missiles all terrain mobility.
—“Expo-BrahMos,” Press Trust of India, 5 February 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 5 February 2004.

6 February 2004
According to Dr. V.K. Saraswat, Director of the Research Center Imarat (RCI), India’s missile program has come a long way since it was launched in 1982-83 and is set to enter an exciting phase. According to Saraswat, the Agni ballistic missile has been inducted into the armed forces and tactical missiles such as the surface-to-air Trishul and Akash and the anti-tank Nag missiles are ready for user trials and likely to enter production by 2005. Until the 1990s, the challenge for RCI was to meet “the range and warhead capacity for the missile.” But from “2002-2010 the focus is on accuracy of hit or hit to kill,” which “requires special technologies such as infrared and RF seekers embedded into the missiles with high precision homing devices.” The RCI is also working on a beyond-the-visual-range missile Astra. One test-flight of the missile is expected to take place in 2004 and after the government grants formal sanction for the project in 2004, missile development will likely be accomplished in the next three or four years. Saraswat also provides details about Indian industry participation in the various missile projects.
—“India’s Missile Program is Spurring Industries: Dr. V.K. Saraswat, Director, Research Center Imarat,” Business Line, 6 February 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 6 February 2004.

11 February 2004
India’s Chief of Naval Staff Madhavendra Singh says that the BrahMos cruise missile will become operational in at least one naval ship by the end of 2005. The Indian navy will conduct user trials of the BrahMos by the end of 2004.
—“Naval version of Brahmos will be ready by 2005,” Business Insight, 11 February 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 12 February 2004.

15 February 2004
India’s Defense Minister George Fernandes says that the Agni-III ballistic missile will be tested in 2004, but that no date has been fixed for a potential test so far. However, Fernandes refuses to comment on the missile’s potential range or launch platform.
—“India all set to test-fire Agni-III this year: Fernandes,” Press Trust of India, 15 February 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 15 February 2004.

17 February 2004
According to Larsen & Toubro’s Senior Vice President Mr. P.M. Mehta, the company’s  heavy engineering department (HED) is placing increasing emphasis in the areas of nuclear power, defense, and aerospace, and will focus on high-end technology businesses in the future. Currently, these areas account for a fourth of the department’s revenue stream; but that ratio will likely increase. The company has already produced missile launchers for the Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) and is pushing for increasing its contribution to the BrahMos cruise missile program.
—“L&T to focus on nuclear, defense, and aerospace sectors,” Business Line, 17 February 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 17 February 2004.

19 February 2004
US federal investigators discover that Asher Karni, a South African businessman facing felony charges for exporting nuclear bomb triggers to Pakistan, also worked to supply India rocket related technologies. E-mail records of exchanges between Karni and an Indian businessman Raghavendra or Ragu Rao of Foretek Marketing (Pvt.) Ltd. indicate that the latter tried to procure high-tech equipment from the United States while concealing that the equipment was destined for the Liquid Propulsion Systems Center (LPSC)  and the Vikram Sarabhai Space Center in India. An August 2002 e-mail from Rao to Karni warns the latter to conceal the final customer of an accelerometer to the LPSC, noting that its export to India is restricted due to concerns that it might be used in missile guidance systems.
—Matt Kelley, Accused of aiding Pakistan nuclear program, trader also helped India, records indicate,” AP, 19 February 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 20 February 2004.

20 February 2004
Raghavendra Singh of Foretek Marketing in Bangalore, the man suspected of trying to procure equipment illegally from the United States through Karni Singh, says the equipment was “for the space program, which is entirely civilian in nature.”
—“Interview: Indian businessman named in US nuclear-related trial says material he got was not for a weapons program,” AP, 20 February 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 21 February 2004.

20 February 2004
The Indian Space Research Organization announces plans to expand the annual production capacity of ammonium perchlorate (AP) at its Ammonium Perchlorate Experimental Plant from 300-tons to 800 tons. The expanded production facility is expected to be completed by early 2005. AP is an important constituent of solid propellants used to power rockets.
—T.S. Subramaniam, “A powder that will power the nation’s strategic capability,” Hindu, 20 February 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 20 February 2004.

21 February 2004
According to Dr. Sivathanu Pillai, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of the BrahMos cruise missile program, India and Russia have agreed to develop and test an air-launched version of the missile for deployment aboard SU-30 combat aircraft during the next two to three years. Pillai says that while Hyderabad remains the technical center for the Brahmos program, New Delhi is the design and management headquarters for the project. On the question of exports, Pillai adds that the decision to export the missile will be made at the highest levels of both the Indian and Russian governments.
—“Second version of BrahMos to be tested in 2-3 years,” Business Line, 21 February 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 22 February 2004.

24 February 2004
In a testimony to the US Senate Intelligence Committee, the US naval director of intelligence Lowell E. Jacoby says that that the US navy expects other countries such as India to join Russia, China, and France as major exporters of cruise missiles. India is expected to begin production of the P J10 anti-ship / land attack cruise missile in 2004  in partnership with Russia.
—“Prepared Statement of Lowell E. Jacoby US Navy Director Defense Intelligence Agency,” Federal News  Service, 24 February 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, 24 February 2004, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 24 February 2004.

26 February 2004
The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) denies rumors that the test-rocket motor that caught fire at its Satish Dhawan Space Center was being developed for the Agni ballistic missile. ISRO Assistant Scientific Secretary Rajeev Lochan says, “this was a test development motor for a new motor. It is not yet connected with any particular launch vehicle, but is a new technology for a different design concept.” The Hyderabad based Defense Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL) which designs solid rocket motors for the Agni project also denies reports that the motor that caught fire was designated for the Agni project. DRDL director Dr. Prahlada says that “ISRO keeps making segments of this motor depending on their needs. It is not a specifically designated module. The motor used in the PSLV is similar to the one used in the Agni; both have segments of the size of one meter.”
—“Alarm on Agni is False,” 26 February 2004, Economic Times, 26 February 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 25 February 2004.

4-5 March 2004
The Indo-US Joint Technical Group (JTG) approves a framework for exchanging information on defense research and development, including missile defense programs. This is the sixth meeting of the JTG and is co-chaired by Alfred Volkman, Director of International Cooperation in the Office of the US Undersecretary of Defense and Prada Rao, Chief Controller for research and development technology in India’s Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO).
—Bulbul Singh, “India, US agree on R&D cooperation,” Aerospace Daily, 9 March 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 11 March 2004.

19 March 2004
India successfully tests an Air Force version of its extended-range Prithvi short-range ballistic missile from the Interim Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur on the Orissa coast. The Air Force version of the missile is called P-II; it has been flight-tested many times and is in the final stages of operationalization. The Indian Defense Ministry says that the missile tested has improved accuracy and the test is part of a continuous effort to fine tune the missile.
—“Extended version of Prithvi missile test fired,” Press Trust of India, 19 March 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 19 March 2004; “New improved Prithvi missile tested,” Indian Express, 20 March 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 20 March 2004; T.S Subramaniam, “IAF version of Prithvi missile launched,” Hindu, 20 March 2004, 20 March 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 20 March 2004.

23 March 2004
The head of India’s Defense Research & Development Organization Dr. V.K. Aatre says that India may test the Agni-III ballistic missile any time in 2004. According to Aatre, “we have put in operation elaborate plans that the test firing is successful…any failure in the launch would be a great setback to the defense scientists.” Commenting on the recent test of the Air Force version of the Prithvi, Aatre says that these missiles were being tested with global positioning systems to give them greater accuracy. However, Aatre rules out a change in the Prithvi’s propellants from liquid to solid fuel on grounds that shorter range missiles are more accurate with liquid fuel.
—“India may test-fire surface-to-surface Agni-III missiles,” Press Trust of India, 23 March 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 24 March 2004.

29 March 2004
The Chief Executive Officer of India’s BrahMos supersonic cruise missile project Dr. A. Sivathanu Pillai says that BrahMos aerospace will deliver the first of the anti-ship missile systems to the Indian navy by 2005; and production facilities for the missile are being established in both India and Russia. The anti-ship BrahMos that was first tested in 2001 is being made available to the user within a record four years. According to Pilla, trials of the missile from aboard a ship and from mobile launchers on shore produced “good results,” ….and “almost all trials were successful.” Encouraged by the success of the naval version of the missile, BrahMos aerospace is now undertaking the development of a ship-to-shore version and an air-to-ship version of the cruise missile. Pillai identifies the pooling of technological capabilities, sharing costs of setting up production and manufacture, and the combining of expertise during the development and trial phases as some of the advantages of the joint venture with Russia.
—“BrahMos missile for navy by next year,” Business Line, 29 March 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, http://web.lexis-nexis.com, 30 March 2004.

5 April 2004
Kerela Hightech Industries Ltd plans to expand its product range to include pressure transducers for the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and the Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO), as well as injection valves for ISRO’s geo-stationary satellite launch vehicle (GSLV). The company already produces propellant tanks, liquid engines, control system components, nozzles and other important components for the polar satellite launch vehicle (PSLV) and GSLV programs. It has also supplied titanium gas bottles used in rockets and missiles and taken up manufacture of robots for the Bhabha Atomic Research Center (BARC).
—KELTEC set to expand product range,” Business Insight, 5 April 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 7 April 2004.

8 April 2004
The Indo-Russian BrahMos Aerospace Ltd. signs an agreement with Russia’s main arms exporter Rosoboronexport and the NPP Mash missile company to jointly market the ship- and aircraft-borne versions of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile. The missile is expected to enter production in 2004. According to the Dr. A. Sivathanu Pillai, CEO and MD of the company, the missile evoked a lot of interest when it was displayed at defense exhibitions at New Delhi, Singapore, and Sydney. The agreement with Rosoboronexport is also expected to speed up clearances for potential purchases of the missile by the Russian armed services. Despite many queries, the missile cannot yet be exported because the governments of Russia and India have not yet drawn up a list of friendly countries to whom the missile can be marketed.
—Vladimir Radyuhin, “India, Russia to market BrahMos,” Hindu, 8 April 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 8 April 2004.

26 April 2004
The Chief Controller (R&D) of the Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) Dr. A. Sivathanu Pillai praises the Kerela government owned Kerela High-Tech Industries Ltd. (KELTEC) for its success in manufacturing a range of defense and space-related products for the DRDO and Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO). Pillai says that KELTEC is able to manufacture products that require high-precision and work quality. It provides a one-stop shop for producing a range of products such as propellant tanks, liquid engines, control system components, nozzles, and other critical components for ISRO’s polar satellite launch vehicle (PSLV) and geostationary satellite launch vehicle programs. Because of its unique strengths, DRDO and ISRO have extended financial support to the company and helped restore it to fiscal health.
—Harsh Govind, “BrahMos will give navy a big advantage: expert,” Hindu, 26 April 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 26 April 2004.

25 May 2004
The Indo-Russian joint venture BrahMos Aerospace plans on becoming Asia’s largest missile producer by 2007. According to the company’s CEO Dr. A. Sivathanu Pillai, the company plans on achieving a $1 billion annual turnover by that date.
—“BrahMos has big ambitions,” Flight International, 25 May 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 2 June 2004.

26 May 2004
According to Dr. S. Sundararajan, a scientist at the Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO), the BrahMos missile program has helped India develop several raw materials such as “high quality and strong materials and dyes,” including several non-metallic materials such as radone. Sundararajan also singled out Indian private sector companies such as Larsen & Toubro and Godrej for speeding up advances in missile-related research and development, reducing costs, and optimizing the use of research facilities.
—“BrahMos has helped in developing raw materials: scientist,” Press Trust of India, 26 May 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 26 May 2004.

4 June 2004
US Undersecretary of Defense visits New Delhi to participate in the fourth meeting of the Indo-US defense policy group (DPG). After meeting members of the new government in New Delhi, Feith says that “we [US officials] discussed the issue [missile defense] with the new Indian leadership as both countries are facing serious missile threats. If India wants to go ahead with cooperation on missile defense, we will be happy to work with India.”
—Siddharth Varadarajan, “Indo-US ties to face ‘missile defense’ test next week,” Times of India, 30 May 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 31 May 2004; “US renews missile defense cooperation,” Times of India, 4 June 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 4 June 2004.

4 June 2004
The Scientific Advisor to India’s Defense Minister V.K. Aatre says that India has begun integrating the 3,000km Agni-III ballistic missile with an aim to test it in 2004. However, Aatre says that it is difficult for him to predict precisely when the missile will be tested and the test is likely a few months away. Aatre also tells reporters that India has the technological capability to build inter-continental ballistic missiles (ICBM). “Once you have mastered the kind of technologies for Agni I, Agni II, and Agni III,” Aatre says, “for longer range of missiles, there are no new technologies…we have all the technologies…it (ICBM) needs a larger engine, longer burning time, improvement in the guidance system, among others. However, Aatre cautions, “it’s not a question of whether we can build an ICBM or not, but whether we want an ICBM, which I am not going to talk about.”
—“India plans to test 3,000km Agni III missile this year: Aatre,” Press Trust of India, 4 June 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 4 June 2004.

13 June 2004
India tests a surface-to-surface army version of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile. This is the seventh test of the missile. The missile was launched vertically from a container using a mobile autonomous launcher. Of the seven flight tests conducted so far, two have been conducted from ships, three from land, and two from land-based TATRA mobile launchers. Although no missile has been flight tested using submarine platforms, a Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) source says that the submarine version is ready.
—“BrahMos test-fired successfully,” Business Insight, 14 June 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 25 June 2004; T.S. Subramanian, “Kalam congratulates scientists,” Hindu, 14 June 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 14 June 2004; T.S. Subramanian, “BrahMos launch successful,” Hindu, 14 June 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 14 June 2004.

15 June 2004
The Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) plans on conducting one final demonstration test of the BrahMos cruise missile and is awaiting orders from the Indian government to commence mass production. Mass manufacture is expected to begin by the end of 2004. The DRDO’s Defense Research & Defense Laboratory (DRDL) has the capacity to produce four to six BrahMos missiles annually.
—DRDL awaits orders to begin BrahMos production,” Business Insight, 15 June 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 26 June 2004.

19 June 2004
India’s Defense Minister Pranab Mukherjee says that the Agni III ballistic missile was scheduled for a flight-test in November 2003; but the test was postponed. However, the missile will be tested in 2004. Without giving any precise time frame for the test, Mukherjee tells reporters, “you will get to know when we carry out the tests.”
—“Agni III missile to be test-fired “when required” – Indian Defense Minister,” BBC Monitoring International Reports, 20 June 2004; in Lexis-Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 20 June 2004.

21 June 2004
In an address to Indian and American space scientists during a five-day conference in Bangalore the US Ambassador to India David C. Mulford says that the United States desires to “deepen” the ongoing dialogue with India on missile defense and engage it in a “more sophisticated” and advanced level. Mulford elaborates that “there is already conversation that is going on. The question is the degree of sophistication over confidentiality if you like…”
—“US desires to deepen missile defense dialogue with India,” Press Trust of India, 21 June 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 21 June 2004.

21 June 2004
According to the test of the joint statement issued by India and Pakistan after the expert-level talks on nuclear confidence building measures, both countries agree to “work towards concluding an agreement with technical parameters on pre-notification of flight testing of missiles, a draft of which was presented by the Indian side.”
—Amit Baruah, “Text of joint statement,” Hindu, 21 June 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 21 June 2004.

23 June 2004
The Indian navy makes public India’s naval doctrine and makes the case for a sea-based nuclear capability. The doctrine emphasizes that nuclear weapons have the potential to deliver unacceptable damage to any regime and urges the Indian government to invest in nuclear submarines capable of launching nuclear tipped missiles.
—“New Indian naval doctrine says nuclear submarines ‘essential’,” BBC Monitoring International Reports, 23 June 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 23 June 2004.

4 July 2004
India tests its 700km-range Agni-I ballistic missile from a mobile launcher on Wheeler Island off eastern Orissa state. This is the third flight-test of the Agni-I. The Scientific Advisor to India’s Defense Minister Dr. V.K. Aatre says the prime motive for this test was to reconfirm the technical parameters set for the user (Army) associated launch. Indian defense sources claim the test showed considerable improvements in the missile’s re-entry and maneuverability; according to data obtained from ground radars, telemetry stations and visual observations, all objectives of the test were met. The Director of the Advanced Systems Laboratory Dr. R.N. Agarwal (Mission Director) calls the test a “text book” launch.
—Pratap Mohanty, “India tests nuclear capable missile,” Agence France Presse, 4 July 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 5 July 2004; “India testfires upgraded Agni-I,” Times of India, 5 July 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 5 July 2004; Sandeep Dikshit, “Army’s missile group to maintain Agni A-1,” Hindu, 5 July 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 5 July 2004.

20 July 2004
An Israeli defense delegation holds high-level talks with India’s Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) on a number of joint projects in high-technology areas including the development of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV).
—“High-level Israeli defense delegation holds talks with DRDO,” Press Trust of India, 20 July 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 20 July 2004.

21 July 2004
Indian Defense Minister Pranab Mukherjee informs parliament that the government has begun equipping the country’s armed services with the BrahMos cruise missile. After a series of successful launches, the navy has decided to equip a number of its warships with the missile. Mukherjee also notes the good prospects of selling the BrahMos in the international defense market. However, he explains that marketing will require the joint consent of the Indian and Russian governments. Indian defense sources suggest that the five Rajput or Kashin-II class destroyers in the navy’s fleet would be among the first to be equipped with the missile.
—Yuri Sidorov, “India equipping armed forces with BrahMos missile,” ITAR-TASS, 21 July 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 22 July 2004; “Navy starts inducting BrahMos,” Business Insight, 23 July 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 10 August 2004; Rajat Pandit, “Navy begins to induct BrahMos,” Times of India, 24 July 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 26 July 2004.

31 July 2004
Addressing reporters at the Aeronautical Society of India meeting in Hyderabad, the Scientific Advisor to India’s Defense Minister Dr. V.K. Aatre says that India is seeking collaboration with Israel in the development of long-range missiles. “Wherever they have strengths,” says Aatre, “we want to jointly develop the missiles so that both the countries can benefit and share designs, costs, risk.” Aatre also discloses that a ring-laser gyro indigenously developed by the Defense Research & Development Organization’s (DRDO) laboratory at Imarat would find applications in the navigational systems of missiles and the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA). 
—“Longer-range missiles in the offing: defense advisor,” Press Trust of India, 31 July 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 1 August 2004.

31 July 2004
India’s new Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Arun Prakash says that the “navy needs nuclear submarines but it is up to the government to take a decision on the acquisition.” Prakash says that his goal is to make the navy “network centric” by interlinking long-range missiles, radars, and sensors on the naval warships through satellite and information technology to deliver a lethal punch.
—“India needs nuclear submarines, says new naval chief,” Press Trust of India, 31 July 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 1 August 2004.

18 August 2004
The Scientific Advisor to India’s Defense Minister Dr. V.K. Aatre says that the 3,000km-range Agni-III is in the final phase of integration, but indicates no time frame for flight-testing the missile. He also discloses that the Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) has begun developing the beyond-the-visual range Astra air-to-air missile; the latter will be integrated with the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA).
—“3,000km range Agni-III in final phase of integration: Aatre,” Press Trust of India, 18 August 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 18 August 2004.

19 August 2004
India’s Defense Minister Pranab Mukherjee informs parliament that the Agni-I ballistic missile that was last tested on 4th July 2004 “is in production for induction into the Army.”
—“India’s Agni-I missile in production stage,” Press Trust of India, 19 August 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 19 August 2004.

19 August 2004
The Indian parliament’s Standing Committee on Defense recommends that the Indian government should set up aerospace command to tap the potential for outer space in preparation for defense and future war scenarios. Despite appreciating the Indian government’s concerns about a potential arms race in outer space, the committee in its report urges the government to prepare for any threat from outer space. The committee also urges the government to explore the possibility of exporting missiles built at Bharat Dynamics Ltd. in the international defense market.
—“India should go ahead with plans to tap potential space tech,” Press Trust of India, 19 April 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 19 August 2004.

20 August 2004
India’s United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government indicates that it intends to continue with the preceding National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government’s polices on missile defense. In a written response to a question raised in parliament whether the UPA government had formed an opinion on the US offer to include India in the missile defense program, the Minister of State for External Affairs E. Ahamed replies, “presentations and briefings by the US side on missile defense have been on the agenda of the India-US Defense Policy Group since 2001. The US side made a presentation on missile defense in Delhi on 1 June 2004. There is no change in the policy of the government under which it has held preliminary discussions  and dialogue with the US on the subject of missile defense.”
—Amit Baruah, “UPA continuing NDA policy on missile defense,” Hindu, 20 April 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 20 April 2004.

26 August 2004
Replying to a question raised in parliament, India’s Defense Minister says that the “navy has placed a Letter of Interest for inducting BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles in certain types of ships and in-shore. Production has commenced for induction in 2005.”
—“BrahMos supersonic cruise missile to be inducted in Navy next year,” Press Trust of India, 26 August 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 26 August 2004.

29 August 2004
India flight-tests the Agni-II ballistic missile from Wheeler Island in the Bay of Bengal off the Orissa coast. This is the third test of the Agni-II. Project Chief R.N. Agarwal says, “The launch of the Agni-II from its rail mobile launcher met all the mission objectives, including achieving the high accuracy in guiding the payload to the designated target at a 1,200 kilometer range.” Agarwarl adds, “The white hot object (payload) was tracked by pre-positioned naval ships confirming the impact and success of the mission.”
—“Agni-II test fired,” Press Trust of India, 29 August 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 29 August 2004; “India tests nuclear-capable ballistic missile,” AFP, 29 August 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 30 August 2004.

31 August 2004
The head of India’s Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) Dr. V.K. Aatre denies that Israel has already helped India build guided missiles. Aatre says Indo-Israeli defense cooperation was confined to research and development in the areas of sensors and fiber-optic gyroscopes for the military.
—“India plans to build long-range missiles with Israel: Official,” AFP, 31 August 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 1 September 2004.

31 August 2004
The head of India’s Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) Dr. V.K. Aatre tells reporters during his farewell press conference that DRDO is training the Indian Army’s missile group in launch techniques, mounting warheads, and other technical parameters of surface-to-surface missiles. Aatre confirms that some Agni-I and II ballistic missiles have been delivered to the Army. “We have completely developed systems for these two missiles,” says Aatre, “and a certain number of them have been delivered to the Army.” Aatre also confirms that India will “soon go in for launch of the longer range 3,000km version of the missile Agni-III….the technique for longer-range missiles exists. We are in the process of putting it together,” he says.
—“India deploying Agni missiles,” Press Trust of India, 31 August 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 31 August 2004; “Agni-III launch soon, says outgoing DRDO chief,” Economic Times, 1 September 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 1 September 2004.

1 September 2004
The outgoing chief of India’s Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) Dr. V.K. Aatre tells reporters that India will be collaborating with Israel and the United States to develop nano-materials and high-tech components needed for electronic warfare systems. Aatre says that India has decided to launch joint programs with Israel in the field of electronic warfare, where both countries are on an equal footing. “Israel is very strong in sensors and packaging,” says Aatre, “…we would like to work on fibre-optic gyros and micro-electromechanical systems.” Responding to questions on Indo-US defense cooperation, Aatre says that India and the United States have collaborated in the life sciences and would launch joint programs in the areas of nano-technology and nano-research.
—“India to tie up with Israel, US for e-warfare systems,” Financial Express, 1 September 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 1 September 2004.

6 September 2004
In an address before the Delhi Policy Group (DPG) in New Delhi, India’s Deputy National Security Advisor Satish Chandra criticizes the proliferation security initiative (PSI) and ballistic missile defense (BMD) -- two US initiatives designed to combat the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. Chandra questions the legality of PSI and says that missile defense was “part of the paradigm shift where it [United States] could consider resorting to the use of nuclear weapons in a pre-emptive mode.” Chandra also laments that instead of moving in the direction of nuclear disarmament, the United States has “been advocating new rationales for the retention of nuclear weapons and developing new types of nuclear weapons.” Chandra describes measures such as PSI as “ad-hoc initiatives” and regrets that India has been “at the receiving end of existing export control regimes.” He argues that the “US moves need to be analyzed closely  with a view to ensuring that the new systems being contemplated do not hurt us…the US has announced several measures, most notably the PSI as well as the container security initiative to address this threat. Some of the measures contained in these proposals are commendable but some others could pose problems. Fore instance, there are obviously problems of legality in the interdictions envisaged under the PSI. There are also problems as to what would trigger these interdictions.” Chandra emphasizes that the international community needs to undertake “concerted actions through universally negotiated programs and systems” rather than “ad-hoc, piecemeal measures.”
—Siddharth Varadrajan, “India signals wariness on missile defense,” Hindu, 6 September 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 6 September 2004.

8 September 2004
According to the joint statement issued by the Indian and Pakistani foreign ministers at the conclusion of bilateral talks in New Delhi, the two countries will continue to hold expert level meetings to discuss the draft agreement on advance notification of missile tests.
—“Text of the joint statement issued at the conclusion of Indo-Pak talks at foreign ministers’ level,” Pakistan Press International Information Services Limited, 8 September 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 10 September 2004.

9 September 2004
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is reportedly increasing its arsenal of Prithvi short-range ballistic missiles. The air force recently placed an order for 54 missiles. The IAF’s two missile squadrons – one of which may be called the 2203 Squardon – are being raised in Hyderabad. However, the missiles will be moved closer to the border with Pakistan during a crisis or war.
—Srinjoy Chowdhury, “IAF increasing Prithvi arsenal,” Statesman, 9 September 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 8 September 2004.

18 September 2004
India will display the BrahMos cruise missile at the South African Defense Expo scheduled to begin on 21st September 2004 in Pretoria.
—“BrahMos to be put on display, sale at S. African defense expo,” Press Trust of India, 18 September 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 19 September 2004.

30 September 2004
According to the Deputy Program Director of the BrahMos cruise missile program, S. Sundararajan, it will take at least a decade before the ramjet technology developed for the BrahMos missile can be declared mature.
—“BrahMos will have to wait,” Hindu, 30 September 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 30 September 2004.

2 October 2004
The Director of India’s leading missile research and development laboratory – Research Center Imarat (RCI) -- Dr. V.K. Saraswat outlines the key priority areas for the laboratory in the future. According to Saraswat, Indian defense scientists aim at developing ‘smart’ missiles that are smaller, lighter, agile, and can home in on targets with great accuracy. The RCI’s key focus areas include hypersonic vehicles, miniaturized missile systems, nanotechnology, very large systems integration (VLSI), and homing guidance. New miniaturization technologies of particular interest to RCI are miniaturized electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) and system on chip (SOP). In addition, the laboratory is also focusing on developing a new range of rugged materials such as ceramics and lightweight composites that can withstand temperatures of up to 4,000˚C.  Saraswat says that facilities at RCI are being expanded to facilitate development of technologies and products and that he hopes the projects will come to fruition during the next five to seven years.
—“Defense scientists embark on making ‘smart’ missiles,” Business Line, 3 October 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 3 October 2004.

5 October 2004
The Indian government floats a new approach to form partnerships between government owned defense laboratories and private companies to encourage the latter to develop defense products. Under the new approach – government-owned company-run (GoCo) – the Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) will enter into ventures  with a small equity and guarantee private sector companies that undertake to manufacture the products with a buy back guarantee. One of the first proposals to be floated under the GoCo model is to develop servo valves uses in the control system of missiles.
—“Defense industry joint venture firms in offing,” Business Insight, 5 October 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 7 October 2004.

9 October 2004
The US Ambassador to India David Mulford says in a published interview that India and the United States have gone beyond mere discussions on the missile defense and the issue under discussion now is to “figure out which [ballistic missile] system is needed where.”
—Amit Baruah, “US-India have gone beyond talking about ballistic missile defenses,” Hindu, 9 October 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 9 October 2004.

10 October 2004
According to the CEO and Managing Director of BrahMos Aerospace Dr. A. Sivathanu Pillai, the ‘air launch’ version of the cruise missile was in the design stage will be developed in another two to three years. Pillai says that BrahMos trials against sea-targets have been very successful.
—“Air launch versions of BrahMos in two to three years,” Press Trust of India, 10 October 2004; in Lexis-Nexis-Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 10 October 2004.

10 October 2004
India plans on testing the Dhanush – the sea-version of the land-based Prithvi short-range ballistic missile – in the near future. At present the Indian Navy ‘s reservations about the Dhanush concern its size and the difficulties of launching the missile in rough sea conditions. A software problem that led the missile to loop after launch during an earlier test, has reportedly been resolved. The Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) is also working on a submarine-launched version of the BrahMos cruise missile and the Indian Navy has reportedly designated its Kilo class submarines as the likely platform for these missiles. The navy expects the submarine-version of the BrahMos to be developed within the next three years.
—“Dhanush to be put on trial soon,” Statesman, 10 October 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 10 October 2004.

18 October 2004
Indo-US negotiations on phase II of the ‘Next Phase in Strategic Partnership’ (NSSP) enters a critical stage. Indian officials say that “the US is looking to discuss changes in our domestic laws to tighten export controls” and wants to flag the issue of “human resources.” The United States is concerned that Indian nuclear and missile scientists would be an invaluable source to potential proliferators because they are the only pool of talent familiar with the “start up stage” of nuclear and missile programs. The Indian government believes that the country’s existing legal framework of export controls is robust. However, Indian officials admit that the whole framework can be “toughened” further.
—“Siddharth Varadarajan, “India-US negotiations entering crucial phase,” Hindu, 18 October 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 18 October 2004.

22 October 2004
A Russian military industry source says that “Moscow and New Delhi have signed a contract under which the Indian Navy will get a Project 971 multi-role submarine on a 10-year lease.” The submarine, which is believed to be 85 percent complete, is expected to be handed over to India by 2007. Other Russian media reports suggest that the construction of the two unfinished Project 971 nuclear submarines, which had earlier been suspended for the lack of funds, has resumed at the Amur Shipyards in Komsomolsk-on-the-Amur in the Russian Far East. India is reported to have made an advance payment of $100 million towards the lease contract. The Project-971 submarines can be equipped with 28 nuclear-capable 3000km-range cruise missiles; and the Indian Navy versions of the submarine will likely be armed with the 300km-range nuclear capable Club cruise missiles.
—Vladimir Radyuhin, “Russia to lease nuclear submarine to India,” Hindu, 22 October 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 22 October 2004.

22 October 2004
Russian Defense Minister Sergei Ivanov denies reports that Russia plans to lease nuclear submarines to India.  Ivanov says that there were discussions with India concerning military deliveries earlier during 2004, but “there was no talk of leasing any submarines.”
—“Russia denies reported lease of nuclear submarine to India,” Xinhua General News Service, 22 October 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 23 October 2004. 

27 October 2004
India tests a naval version of the Prithvi – dubbed Prithvi-III – from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur. The missile and its sub-systems are being developed under the project name K-15 and have been designated fast-track projects by the Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO). The Prithvi-III can be launched from under water and this was the first test of the missile from a specially designed canister base inserted in an artificial water body.
—“Prithvi-III test fired,” Press Trust of India, 27 October 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 28 October 2004.

3 November 2004
The naval version of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile is tested in a ship-to-ship mode. The missile is fired from the naval destroyer Rajput and used to attack a decommissioned ship. This is the fourth test of the BrahMos and officials from the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) report that the missile “had a perfect hit on the targeted ship.” According to Dr. Sivathanu Pillai, Chief Executive Officer of the BrahMos project, “the major achievements of the tests were mid-course maneuverability of the missile and the advanced fire control systems, which functioned 100 percent.”
—“Brahmos successfully tested,” Press Trust of India, 3 November 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe,  <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 3 November 2004;  “Brahmos anti-ship missile tested,” Business Line, 4 November 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 4 November 2004.

5 November 2004
In its annual report, India’s Defense Ministry says that there is the ‘threat of use of nuclear weapons against the country.” The report further states, “The Indian armed forces have to be prepared for the full spectrum of security challenges from terrorism, low intensity conflict, to conventional war and the possibility of the use of nuclear weapons and missiles.” Along with a minimum deterrent, India also requires a balanced mix of land-based, maritime, and air capabilities.
—“India requires independent deterrent capability: Report,” Press Trust of India, 5 November 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 5 November 2004.

7 November 2004
India’s Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) conducts the third test of the Dhanush, the naval version of the Prithvi short-range ballistic missile. The missile is launched using a stabilized launcher on the naval ship INS Subhadra, anchored off Chandipur-at-sea on the Orissa coast. The head of the DRDO team Dr. Saraswat says that “all mission parameters in respect of accuracy and range were fully met.”
—“Dhanush test fired from Orissa coast,” Press Trust of India, 7 November 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 7 November 2004; “Dhanush missile successfully test fired,” Hindu, 8 November 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 8 November 2004.

13 November 2004
The Defense Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL) plans to flight-test a ground-to-ground version of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile in December 2004. It has also set up production facilities and can deliver one missile every month. The Director of DRDL Dr. Prahlada says, “the program [BrahMos] has matured and capability to test fire and manufacture them as per user demands has been achieved.”
—“BrahMos, Akash, Trishul to be test fired soon,” Business Insight, 13 November 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 16 November 2004; “BrahMos, Akash, Trishul to be test fired soon,” Business Line, 13 November 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 14 November 2004. 

30 November 2004
The Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) uses a live warhead during a test of the Akash surface-to-air missile. This is the first time the missile is tested with a live warhead and according to Dr. Prahlada, Director of DRDO’s Defense Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL), the event represents “… a milestone in the history of India’s defense research and development.”

1 December 2004
The Russian space agency says that it will continue cooperation with India in the development of an oxygen-hydrogen booster for space rockets. The agency’s head Anatoily Perminov says, “In Russia, we are planning to install the booster in the new promising Angara rocket. The Indian project is already ahead of our own. In fact, both Russia and India benefit from that.”
—“Russia, India to continue cooperation in developing space booster,” BBC Monitoring International Reports, 1 December 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 1 December 2004.

2 December 2004
India and Russia ink three protocols concerning fresh investments in the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile program after a meeting between the Indian and Russian defense ministers Pranab Mukherjee and Sergei Ivanov. Under the agreements Russia will take up a stake of 50 to 60 percent in the BrahMos project, which is expected to provide the project with an additional $50 million. According to Russian officials, 360-370 BrahMos cruise missiles could be produced annually. India and Russia also agree to draft an intellectual property agreement in the next four or five months concerning intellectual property in collaborative defense projects.
—“India, Russia sign protocols for producing missiles,” Press Trust of India, 2 December 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 2 December 2004.

2 December 2004
India agrees to participate in Russia’s Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS). Under the terms of the agreement signed with Russia, India will participate in the program by launching Russian satellites and the two countries will jointly operate the system. India could also potentially gain access to the military applications of the GLONASS system, which could help improve the accuracy of Indian missiles.
—Vladimir Radyuhin, “India, Russia to build space navigation system,” Hindu, 2 December 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 2 December 2004.

2 December 2004
Russian Defense Minister Sergei Ivanov expresses skepticism about the export potential of the BrahMos supersonic missile project and tells reporters that he is “not enthusiastic about the project. So far it has been a stillborn baby.” Ivanov futher says, “The Russian side should sign a government resolution to increase the charter capital of the Russian company involved in the project. I will hope this will happen in the nearest future.”
—“Russian minister skeptical about BrahMos missile project with India,” BBC Monitoring International Reports, 2 December 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 2 December 2004.

2 December 2004
Russia agrees to expand its role in the joint Indo-Russian BrahMos cruise missile project. Russian Defense Minister Sergei Ivanov says that “in the coming days executive orders will be passed so that the share of Russia’s side in the project will be scaled up.” He adds that the “India, Russia relationship has now moved from a buyer-seller relationship to joint technology development of new projects.”
—“Russia to shore up support to India in cruise missile project,” AFP, 2 December 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 3 December 2004.

3 December 2004
India and Russia agree to take their strategic partnership to a “higher” technological level, despite differences concerning the protection of intellectual property rights (IPR) and the maintenance and delivery schedules of weapon systems. Russia would like India to sign an IPR agreement immediately so that advanced weapon systems such as the BrahMos cruise missile jointly developed by both countries are not exported by India to third countries without Russia’s consent. In turn India would like Russia to provide strong commitments on maintenance of delivery schedules on contracted weapon systems, uninterrupted supplies of spares, and lifetime product support. Russian Defense Minister Sergei Ivanov says that “we [Russian federation] are prepared to transfer frontier technology to India in a strategic tie-up based on a new pattern of defense cooperation.”
—“India, Russia to make defense ties stronger,” Times of India, 3 December 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 3 December 2004.

3 December 2004
India concedes Russia’s two-year old request for a defense secrecy agreement to ensure that high-end defense equipment and technology received from Russia is not sold or transferred to another country. Indian Defense Minister Pranab Mukerhjee says that the agreement is likely to be negotiated within the next four or five months.
—Sandeep Dikshit, “India, Russia plan on fresh investment for developing BrahMos missile,” Hindu, 3 December 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 3 December 2004.

4 December 2004
Russian President Vladimir Putin inaugurates a joint Indo-Russian military venture in New Delhi to manufacture the BrahMos supersonic anti-ship cruise missile.
—“Putin inaugurates Indian-Russian missile manufacturing complex,” DPA, 4 December 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 5 December 2004.

6 December 2004
India indicates interest in purchasing the Arrow anti-ballistic missile system from Israel in talks with the Israeli defense ministry Director-General Amos Yaron and Israel Aircraft Industries CEO Moshe Qeret, who are on a visit to India as part of Industry and Trade Minister Ehud Qlmert’s entourage.
—“India interested in buying Israel’s anti-missile system,” BBC Monitoring International Reports, 6 December 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 6 December 2004.

6 December 2004
India’s President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam visits the BrahMos Aerospace headquarters in New Delhi. In an address to the company’s staff Kalam says that BrahMos is one of the most competitive missile systems and thrust should be given to marketing the missile to friendly Third World countries. If the missile is not marketed in time, it would face competition from other missiles in the market.
—“India-Russia to develop air-launched version BrahMos,” Hindu, 6 December 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 5 December 2004.

6 December 2004
India and Russia plan on developing an air-version of the BrahMos cruise missile. The air-version will be integrated with Sukhoi-30MKI combat aircraft. The air-version of the missile will be developed in two years; it will be lighter than the naval version, but will have the same range. The air-version will also have an improved booster and a modified cap nose. The Defense Research & Development Organization (DRDO) is also planning to test a land- or Army-version of the missile from a mobile launch complex on ground towards a land-target.
—“India-Russia to develop air-launched version of BrahMos,” Hindu, 6 December 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 5 February 2004.

6 December 2004
India and Russia sign an agreement to protect intellectual property associated with Russian military technology transferred to India. Indian Defense Minister Pranab Mukherjee states that efforts to draft a formal agreement will commence in January 2005. Russian Defense Minister Sergei Ivanov indicates that Russia is ready to increase its investment in the BrahMos cruise missile project in which both countries hold 50 percent of the shares.
—“India-Russia will sign,” Aviation Week & Space Technology, 6 December 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 9 December 2004.

9 December 2004
In a written reply to parliament, Indian Defense Minister Pranab Mukherjee states that the indigenously developed Trishul and Akash surface-to-air missiles and the Nag anti-tank missiles will be ready for user-trials by December 2005. The Prithvi-I has already been inducted into the Army and development trials of the Air Force and Navy versions of the Prithvi – Prithvi-II and Dhanush – have been completed. The BrahMos, Agni-I, and –II are in the process of induction into the armed services. The Indian government, Mukherjee states, is not considering the export of the Prithvi and Agni ballistic missiles as both classes of missiles are subject to international nonproliferation restrictions. However, certain countries have shown interest in purchasing the Nag and the BrahMos.
—“Akash, Trishul, Nag missiles to user,” Press Trust of India, 9 December 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 9 December 2004.

13 December 2004
In an address to the 56th convention of the Aeronautical Society of India, the CEO and Managing Director of the Indo-Russian joint-venture company BrahMos Aerospace Pvt. Ltd. Dr. Sivathanu Pillai states that the first BrahMos supersonic cruise missile will be deployed on an Indian Navy warship in 2005. BrahMos Aerospace has already received a letter of intent and monetary advance from the Navy on the basis of which production of the missile has begun. Pillai also discloses that the Air Force version of the BrahMos will fly on the Sukhoi-30 and will require reconfiguration to “reduce the booster for the aircraft.” Although the development time for the Air Force variant is expected to be about four to five years, Pillai expresses confidence that BrahMos Aerospace will be able to achieve the task within “three years.” The BrahMos will be produced by a consortium of 20 Indian (seven public and 13 private sector) and 10 Russian companies. The Russian equity in BrahMos Aerspace has been financed through the diversion of Indian loan repayments to Russia.
—‘IAF variant of BrahMos likely in three years,” Times of India, 13 December 2004; in Lexis-Nexis Academic Universe, <http://web.lexis-nexis.com>, 13 December 2004.

22 December 2004
India tests a land-to-land or Army-version of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile. The flight-tested missile successfully distinguishes and destroys a pre-determined building from within a cluster of buildings.
—T.S. Subramanian, “BrahMos-II bang on target,” Hindu,  http://www.hinduonnet.com/, 22 December 2004.

22 December 2004
During a visit to the Vellore Institute of Technology to inaugurate the 21st All-India Manufacturing Technology Design and Research Conference, the Director of India’s premier missile development organization, Defense Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL) Dr. Prahlada states that his organization is working on the development of a hypersonic vehicle capable of flying at a speed 10 times the speed of sound; and development will be completed within three years. Prahlada also states that DRDL is also working on a beyond-the-visual-range air-to-air missile – Astra, which will be ready within five years.
—“Hypersonic air vehicle will be ready in three years,” Hindu, <http://www.hinduonnet.com/>, 22 December 2004.

	Updated January 2005