Explained | An accidental missile launch

The story so far: Making a statement in both Houses of Parliament on the accidental launch of the supersonic missile which ended up in Pakistan last week, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh informed that the government has taken serious note of the incident and a formal high level inquiry has been ordered which would determine the “exact cause” of the said accident. He further added, “While this incident is regretted, we are relieved that nobody was hurt due to the accident.” Stating that the Government attaches highest priority to safety and security of the weapon systems and any shortcoming if found, would be immediately rectified, Mr. Singh said, “I would also like to state that a review of the Standard Operating Procedures for operations, maintenance and inspections is being conducted in the wake of this incident.” The minister emphasised that the missile system is very reliable and safe. The incident came to light after the Pakistan military held a press conference late on Thursday in which it said that they tracked the supersonic surface to surface missile from the time it took flight in Indian territory, manoeuvered and entered Pakistani airspace travelling 124 kms and fell near Mian Channu in Khanewal district, damaging some civilian property. Invoking this aspect, Pakistan said that “given the short distances and response times, any misinterpretation by the other side could lead to counter measures in self-defence with grave consequences.” It further called upon the international community to take serious notice of this incident of “grave nature in a nuclearised environment and play its due role in promoting strategic stability in the region.” While handling and launch of such advanced and potent missiles are highly regulated with several redundancies to avoid such accidents, this incident shows the need to review and make protocols fool proof to avoid any recurrence.