India today successfully test-fired indigenously developed, nuclear-capable, ballistic missiles Prithvi-II from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur, about 15 kilometers from Balasore off the Orissa coast. It has test-fired two surface-to-surface Prithvi-II missiles, the first at 8.15 and the second at 9.15 this morning from launch complex number III of the ITR. Prithvi-II, with a striking range of 250 to 300 kilometers, is capable of carrying a pay-load of 500 kilogrammes. The missile is also capable of taking nuclear warhead. Prithvi, the first ballistic missile developed under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP), is propelled by liquid propulsion twin engine. With a length of nine metre, one point one metre diameter and four point six tonne weight, Prithvi-II uses an advanced inertial guidance system with manoeuvring trajectory. The two missiles test-fired today is reportedly achieved a striking range of 280 kilometers.In June 18 this year, India had successfully test-fired Prithvi-II from the same venue while on September 24 last, the missile had failed to take off. Today’s successful launch will put to rest the speculations about the reliability of the missile. The missile has already been inducted into the Indian Air Force. Senior Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO) scientists, and defence officials were present during today’s user trials