India successfully tested the Anti-Satellite Missile: PM Modi

India demolished a low-orbiting satellite in a missile test that puts the country in the space "super league", Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in an address to the nation, on Wednesday.

"In the journey of every nation there are moments that bring utmost pride and have a historic impact on generations to come. One such moment is today," he said in a remarkable broadcast to the nation on television, radio and social media.

"India has successfully tested the Anti-Satellite (ASAT) Missile. Congratulations to everyone on the success of #MissionShakti," the Prime Minister tweeted later.

The Prime Minister did not say who maintained the satellite nevertheless he added that India did not violate any international laws or treaties. He said the action was not focused against any country specifically and the satellite was a pre-determined target orbiting at an altitude of 300km.

Led by the supervision of the Defence Research and Development Organisation, Mission Shakti, was aimed at firming up India's all round security, he said in his address that comes a fortnight before the start of the general election.

"#MissionShakti was a highly complex one, conducted at extremely high speed with remarkable precision. It shows the remarkable dexterity of India's outstanding scientists and the success of our space programme," Modi said.

"Shooting down a low earth orbit satellite is a rare achievement for the country," he added.

After the US, Russia and China, India is only the fourth country to acquire such a particular and up-to-date competence. "The entire effort is indigenous. India's stands tall as a space power. It will make India stronger, even more secure and will further peace and harmony", Modi said.