India has test-fired a ballistic missile interceptor as part of its efforts to create a shield against incoming enemy missiles, defense officials said.

The indigenous Advanced Air Defense interceptor missile was fired Friday from an island off India's east coast in the Bay of Bengal, The Times of India reported.

The interceptor was launched a few minutes after a target missile was fired from a test range about 40 miles from the AAD launch site, officials said.

The Indian Army, which carried out the test, said the target missile was successfully intercepted by the AAD missile.

The army did not disclose what kind of rocket was used as the target missile.

The interceptor missiles are intended to provide air shield to important Indian cities against hostile attacks, officials said.