As target missile goes off course,interceptor test fails

The latest test of the indigenous missile defence system failed on Monday after the target missile that was meant to be intercepted went off course after an onboard systems malfunction. The target missile,from the Prithvi family,took off normally but went off course after 20 seconds of flight.

As the target went off course,the interceptor missile did not take off as the incoming target was not within its 8216;threat scenario8217;. 8220;The target deviated due to some onboard system malfunction and could not maintain the intended trajectory,failing to attain the desired altitude,8221; a DRDO official said.

The flight test,being conducted under Programme AD was planned to be conducted to demonstrate the interception of a ballistic missile in the endo-atmospheric region.

8220;The Mission Control Centre computer found that the interception is not warranted as the deviated target did not present the incoming missile threat scenario

and accordingly the system intelligently did not allow take-off of the interceptor missile for engaging the target,8221; DRDO said.

A probe is now being conducted to ascertain the cause of the target malfunction.