India Approves New Missile Testing Range in Andhra Pradesh to Boost Defense Capabilities
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Approval Authority | Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi |
| Location | Nagayalanka, Andhra Pradesh |
| Purpose | Establishment of a new missile testing range to bolster India's defense capabilities |
| Focus Areas | Surface-to-air missiles, anti-tank missiles, and other advanced DRDO projects |
| Key Proposals Approved | Procurement of 31 Predator drones (U.S.), construction of two nuclear submarines (Project ATV) |
| Additional Plans | Development of military roads, enhancement of space-based capabilities |
| DRDO Projects | Very Short Range Air Defence Systems, quick reaction surface-to-air missile systems |
| State Role | Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu emphasized state's contribution to defense |
| Facility Features | Modern launch control centers, monitoring stations |
| Completion Timeline | Within three years of land allocation to DRDO |
| Historical Context | Integrated Test Range (ITR) initiative, Machilipatnam Test Range Project (developmental since 2012) |