Article Posted on : - Oct 04, 2009

A file photo.

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM (PTI): Development of more powerful missiles is vital to strengthen the defence and security of the nation, a senior defence scientist said here.

"Concentrating more on research and development of more powerful missile systems was of vital importance and essential to further strengthen the country's defence and security," Tessy Thomas, Project Director of Agni-V, advanced version of India's ballistic missiles, said Saturday.

She was speaking during a reception accorded to her by Women Scientists' Cell of Kerala State Council For Science, Technology and Environment.

Thomas, who was the first woman in the country to become the head of a crucial missile system, said she was proud to serve the nation by associating with such a vital project, "which was an area of high challenges".

The scientist had played a vital role in the successful firing of the 3500-km range Agni-III.