India likely to test launch new surface-to-air missile on Wednesday

Balasore: India is likely to test launch a new surface-to-air missile developed jointly with Israel from a defence base off Odisha coast on Wednesday. [caption id=“attachment_1348697” align=“alignleft” width=“380”] Representational image. AFP[/caption] “Preparation for the maiden test has reached final stage and if weather permits it will be conducted from the Integerated Test Range (ITR) tomorrow," said an official of the ITR at Chandipur, about 15 km from Balasore. The missile is a product of joint venture between India and Israel, DRDO sources said. Apart from the missile, the system includes a multi-functional surveillance and threat alert radar (MF STAR) for detection, tracking and guidance of the missile. The test-firing of the missile would be jointly carried out by Indian defence personnel, DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries, they said. As a precautionary measure, Balasore district administration, in consultation with defence officials in Balasore, have made adequate arrangements to temporarily shift 3652 civilians residing within 2.5 km radius of the launch pad No 3 of the ITR during trial time, officials said. A district revenue official said seven hamlets have been identified within 2.5 km radius of the launch pad and people living there have been alerted through public address system today to shift to nearby shelter camps arranged by the administration. Fisherman engaged in sea fishing along the Bay of Bengal in three coastal districts Balasore, Bhadrakh and Kendrapada have been warned not to venture into the sea during test launch time.