Flames And Arrows
Page 29
0357 Hours
Missile Defence Force HQ
Mumbai
Inside the underground bomb proof bunker, Brigadier Rajinder Singh was staring at the long range radar console. Warning of an impending missile strike had came in just seconds ago jolting everybody in to action. Not that they had been slouching earlier, but the sound of klaxons always has some strange effects on people who hear it.
“How much time?”
“Three-Seven-Zero seconds before it becomes terminal. Rakshak 1 ready by for launch, Rakshak 2 in ten seconds” one technician on deputation from DRDO replied.
“You sure there are no other bogies?”
“Yes sir.”
On the screen they watched as the Pakistani M11 came closer, waiting anxiously for it to come within the kill-zone. They did not have to wait long. Within seconds a beeping sound let everybody know of the fact. “Launch Rakshak 1.” Brig Rajinder Singh ordered with a calm voice that belied what he was feeling inside. He started a countdown on a timer and ordered, “Launch Rakshak 2 on the 0 count.”
He again went on to staring at the radar screen as one small blip of Rakshak 1, a PAD missile rose from its launcher and started its journey to intercept the enemy missile. 5 seconds later, another blip announced the launch of Rakshak 2. Seconds seemed like hours as the two blips from Indian side gained altitude and converged on the M11.
“10 seconds to Rakshak 1 intercept, starting now. “One technician announced. “9 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2 ,1.” then silence as the two blips merged.
“What?” Brigadier Singh shouted anxiously then smiled as data was updated on the screen in front of him.
“We have a successful intercept by Rakshak 1. Rakshak 2 will self-destruct in twenty seconds.”
Brig Singh jumped up from his chair and congratulated the grinning DRDO techies by slapping them on their backs. “When all this is over, I'll throw a grand party for everybody in this bunker. What's your favourite booze son? Anything you ask for.”
One of the technicians replied apologetically, “But I don't drink sir. “
“But you will when we have that party. Better start preparing now.” Brig. Singh laughed.