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India Successfully Tests Flight Trials of First Naval Anti-Ship Missile
The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy successfully carried out flight trials of the Naval Anti-Ship Missile (NASM-SR) from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur, Odisha. This is a major step forward in India's defense capabilities.
The missile, fired from an Indian Naval Seaking helicopter, proved its operational capability against naval targets. The test showcased the missile's sophisticated 'Man-in-Loop' capability, enabling in-flight retargeting. In the test, the NASM-SR made a direct hit on a small ship target in sea-skimming mode at maximum range, exhibiting high accuracy through its indigenous Imaging Infra-Red (IIR) seeker for terminal guidance.
One of the highlights was the successful test of a high-bandwidth two-way datalink system, which sent real-time seeker images to the pilot for in-flight target designation. Fired in 'Bearing-only Lock-on after Launch' mode, the missile first locked onto a larger target but was then diverted to a smaller, concealed target in the terminal phase, hitting with precision.
The NASM-SR incorporates state-of-the-art indigenous technologies such as a Fiber Optic Gyroscope-based Inertial Navigation System (INS), a Radio Altimeter as a mid-course guidance, electro-mechanical actuators, thermal batteries, and a PCB warhead. It has a solid propulsion system with an in-line ejectable booster and a long-burn sustainer.
Produced by several , Defence Research and Development Laboratory, High Energy Materials Research Laboratory, and Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory production of the missile includes partnership with MSMEs, startups, and other industry players.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh credited DRDO, the Navy, and industry associates, underlining the strategic significance of the capability of the missile to retarget in flight. DRDO Chief Dr. Samir V Kamat congratulated the teams on their tireless efforts and their contribution to this technological advancement, further strengthening India's defence capability in naval warfare.
The success of this test reflects India's resolve to further develop its naval capabilities with indigenously developed innovations, which will further improve the defence readiness of the nation in changing maritime situations.
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