In a major boost to India’s maritime defense capabilities, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy on Wednesday successfully conducted flight trials of the Naval Anti-Ship Missile (NASM-SR) from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, Odisha. The successful test marks a significant milestone in India’s pursuit of indigenous defense technology.
Successful Test from Sea King Helicopter
The missile was launched from an Indian Navy Sea King helicopter, showcasing its ability to engage ship targets with high precision. The Ministry of Defence stated that the test successfully demonstrated the missile’s sea-skimming capability, which allows it to evade radar detection and strike its target at low altitudes.
Key Features of the NASM-SR Missile
During the trial, the missile was tested at its maximum range, engaging a small ship target while operating in Man-in-Loop mode. This feature enables:
- Real-time target selection
- In-flight retargeting capabilities
- High operational flexibility
The missile is equipped with an indigenous Imaging Infra-Red Seeker, which ensures pinpoint accuracy during terminal guidance.
Advanced Indigenous Technologies in NASM-SR
The NASM-SR incorporates several cutting-edge technologies developed by DRDO, including:
- Fiber Optic Gyroscope-based Inertial Navigation System (INS) for mid-course guidance
- Radio Altimeter to enhance targeting precision
- Integrated Avionics Module for improved control
- Electro-Mechanical Actuators for aerodynamic and jet vane control
- High-bandwidth, two-way datalink system for real-time pilot feedback
The missile also features a solid propulsion system with an in-line ejectable booster and a long-burn sustainer, ensuring superior performance in naval warfare scenarios.
Successful Demonstration of Real-Time Target Adjustment
One of the highlights of the test was the successful use of the Bearing-Only Lock-on After Launch mode, where the missile initially locked onto a large target within a designated search zone. However, during the terminal phase, the pilot redirected it towards a smaller, concealed target, demonstrating high adaptability and precision in combat scenarios.
Defense Minister Praises Indigenous Missile Development
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the Indian Navy, and industry partners for the successful flight test, emphasizing that the Man-in-Loop feature provides a significant tactical advantage by allowing mid-flight retargeting.
Collaboration and Indigenous Production
The NASM-SR missile has been developed with contributions from multiple DRDO laboratories, including:
- Research Centre Imarat (RCI)
- Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL)
- High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL)
- Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL)
The missile is being produced in collaboration with Indian defense industry partners, including Development cum Production Partners (DCPPs), MSMEs, and start-ups, ensuring India’s growing self-reliance in defense technology.
The successful flight trial of the Naval Anti-Ship Missile (NASM-SR) marks a major advancement in India’s maritime strike capabilities. With its state-of-the-art guidance systems, real-time retargeting, and indigenous development, this missile will significantly enhance the Indian Navy’s ability to engage hostile ships with precision, reinforcing India’s commitment to developing advanced, homegrown defense technologies.
