India Tests Crystal Maze 2, Air-launched Medium Range Ballistic Missile

India's Strategic Forces Command has successfully tested a new model of its Medium-Range Ballistic Missile, Crystal Maze 2. 

• The recent test was conducted to confirm the operational readiness of the Command and to demonstrate the effectiveness of newly developed technologies. 
• The Ministry of Defence announced that the missile's operational effectiveness and its integration with new technologies were confirmed during the test launch. 
• The test was carried out under the supervision of the Strategic Forces Command, as stated by the ministry. Additionally, sources in the defense and security establishment clarified that this new Medium-Range Ballistic Missile is not part of the ‘Agni’ series of missile systems.

Crystal Maze 2

• The Indian Air Force recently tested an air-launched ballistic missile, significantly boosting its capabilities. 
• The missile has a range of over 250 kilometers and was launched from a Su-30 MKI fighter jet in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. 
• This missile is believed to be the Crystal Maze 2, also known as ROCKS, of Israeli origin. 
• The test was conducted in a region overseen by the tri-services Andaman and Nicobar Command, led by an Air Force officer. The missile, fired from the Su-30 fighter, ascends before rapidly moving towards its target.

Key features of Crystal Maze 2

• Crystal Maze 2 is a missile designed by Israel that can be launched from the air. 
• It can hit targets with high precision and is good at avoiding damage to surrounding areas. 
• The missile can attack positions that are strongly fortified and can reach them from long distances.
• Crystal Maze 2 is known for its accuracy and reliability, making it a popular choice for missions that require precise strikes. 
• It can be used with different platforms, which makes it more flexible and effective in different environments. 
• Crystal Maze 2 can be used in areas where GPS signals are not available and can also be used to attack areas that are protected by air defense systems. 
• The missile can be equipped with either a blast fragmentation or penetration warhead, which makes it suitable for targeting both surface and heavily fortified underground facilities. 

India is currently developing its own version of the Crystal Maze 2 missile. The Indian Air Force (IAF) has already tested it successfully and plans to buy it in large numbers as part of the Make in India initiative. This shows that India is committed to making its own defense equipment.