Procurement: August 9, 2003

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In the first six months of 2003, India spent $16 million to conduct twenty tests of seven new missiles. The most expensive tests were for the larger ballistic missiles (Agni I and II and Prithvi), which have ranges from 200 to 2,000 kilometers. But many smaller guided missiles were tested as well. India has been working for over two decades to develop a competitive domestic missile industry. Many of the missiles now produced are effective, but not ready for international competition and sales. The longer range ballistic missiles could be exported, but that sort of trade is discouraged by the United States and Europe. Many of these missiles will be built for domestic use.