Indian Missile Fails To Launch for Routine Test

NEW DELHI - India's short-range, nuclear-capable Prithvi-II missile failed to launch Sept. 24 during a test at the Chandipur missile range in the eastern state of Orissa.

The test was a routine one for the 350-kilometer-range missile, which already is part of the Indian Air Force's arsenal, a service official said.
"The failed test is no reflection on the quality of the Prithvi-II missile as it has been tested on several occasions in the past," the official added.

The test was conducted by India's Strategic Forces Command, which is aimed to operate the future Indian nuclear arsenal.

The single-stage, liquid-propelled missile could not take off from its launch site, sources said, adding that the test will be repeated soon.