ASAT test shows India has means to destroy ICBMs in outer space: Experts

While satellite and missile interception play out differently, the technologies used for both are very similar

Last month's successful 'Mission Shakti' anti-satellite (ASAT) weapon test showed that India has developed the technological capability to destroy enemy nuclear-tipped missiles launched from as far away as 5,500 kilometres or more, at high altitudes outside the atmosphere, say experts.     

Shortly after the test, the Ministry of External Affairs had said that the missile used in Mission Shakti was "DRDO's Ballistic Missile Defence interceptor", which was "part of the ongoing ballistic missile defence programme". Early reports on the test said the same. However, a day after the test, Defence Research and Development