A snag in some sub-systems on Friday led to the postponement of flight tests of a new series of Indo-Russian supersonic cruise missile, Brahmos, by a day, according to defence sources in New Delhi.

The missile, which has a range of 280 km and can be launched from a variety of platforms, including mobile launchers, submarines and aircraft, will be test-fired from the Balasore test range in Orissa, the sources said.

Saturday's tests will be the third in the series for Brahmos, which has undergone successful tests in June 2001 and April 23 2002.

The missile is the first of its kind in the world, its performance being superior to the presently operational similar missiles, the sources said.

The missile, primarily designed for use by Russian and Indian navies, is likely to enter production by the end of next year. Moscow and New Delhi are also exploring the possibilities of marketing these missiles in friendly third countries.

China has equipped two warships with a lesser range MASKIT class cruise missile procured from Russia, while Pakistan is not known to possess such missiles.