India has successfully tested, for the first time, a medium-range missile to intercept an enemy missile.
Two ballistic missiles collided in mid-air off the country's eastern coast on Monday in a successful test, a top scientist said.
The test was done to check the accuracy and operational effectiveness of short-range Prithvi missiles in providing an air-shield to Indian cities.
It comes a week after the firing of a single Prithvi missile, and 10 days after Pakistan carried out a similar test of its Ghauri missile.
The competing missile tests came after the countries concluded a crucial round of peace talks in New Delhi aimed at resolving their differences.
Both countries routinely test-fire missiles and usually inform each other of the tests ahead of time .
The Prithvi II has a range of 250km and can be fitted with a nuclear or conventional payload of up to 500kg.