Dr. Abdul Kalam Island
Dr. Abdul Kalam Island is also known as the Wheeler Island. It is located off the coast of Odisha. The integrated test range for missiles is located on this island. The island was originally named after the English Lieutenant, Wheeler but in September 2015, it was renamed after the former President of India, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam.
Key points:
- Approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) off the eastern coast of India
- About 70 kilometers (43 miles) south of Chandipur in the Balasore District of Odisha.
- Former Name – It was named Wheeler Island after an English commandant, Lieutenant Hugh Wheeler.
- Renaming Contest – On September 4, 2015, the government of India, unveiled the island, through Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island, as an homage to the late former president of India and eminent scientist Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. Dr. Kalam had been an eminent scientific contributor in regards to India’s missile development program, and as such, needed an island in his namesake.
- Strategic Importance – The island, and it’s facility, an Integrated Test Range (ITR) facility for the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is undoubtedly a strategic importance to India’s defence.
- Missiles and Test Marks – Very similar to an assembly line factory, the ITR tests and conducts all major missile systems for the Indians, including Agni, Prithvi, BrahMos, and many advanced missile systems.
- History – In the early to mid 1980s, a dedicated missile testing range was established on the island because of its strategic layout and distance from distractions. In 1993, the first missile test from the island took place. Dr. Kalam remarked that it was his “Theatre of Action”.
- Geography – The island is small, about 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) long with approximately 390 acres (1.6 square kilometers).
- Access – Because of its strategic importance, the island is closed and not available to the general public. It is accessed only mainly from ship, for people and equipment.