By – Prakarsh Kastwar
In a significant milestone for India’s defense capabilities, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy have successfully tested the country’s first Naval Anti-Ship Missile (NASM-SR). The test was conducted from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, Odisha, marking a major advancement in indigenous missile technology.
Successful Test of NASM-SR
According to an official statement from the Ministry of Defence, the NASM-SR (Naval Anti-Ship Missile-Short Range) is a pioneering weapon system developed entirely in India. The test was carried out on Tuesday, with the missile being launched from an Indian Navy platform, successfully hitting its designated target with high precision.
The NASM-SR was tested in sea-skimming mode, targeting a small maritime vessel. The missile’s advanced guidance system ensured a direct hit, demonstrating its capability to neutralize enemy warships effectively. The missile also showcased its proficiency in man-in-the-loop features, further enhancing its operational flexibility.
Defense Minister Congratulates DRDO and Indian Navy
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh extended his congratulations to DRDO and the Indian Navy for this remarkable achievement. In his statement, he emphasized that the success of NASM-SR strengthens India’s self-reliance in defense technology and enhances the naval forces’ ability to combat maritime threats.
The missile’s ability to strike targets with accuracy proves its reliability in warfare scenarios. “This successful test of India’s first indigenous naval anti-ship missile is a significant step towards strengthening the Indian Navy’s firepower and strategic deterrence capabilities,” said the Defence Minister.
Key Features of NASM-SR
- Range and Targeting: The missile has a medium operational range, capable of engaging enemy warships with pinpoint accuracy.
- Guidance System: Equipped with an advanced onboard navigation and guidance system, ensuring precise target acquisition.
- Sea-Skimming Capability: The missile follows a low-altitude trajectory, making it difficult for enemy radars to detect and intercept.
- Indigenous Development: Designed and developed by DRDO, NASM-SR is a step forward in India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative.
A Strategic Boost for Indian Navy
With the successful test of NASM-SR, the Indian Navy has gained an advanced weapon system that significantly boosts its offensive capabilities. The missile will be integrated into various naval platforms, enhancing India’s maritime defense strategy.
Military analysts suggest that the induction of NASM-SR into the Navy’s arsenal will provide a strategic edge in countering potential threats in the Indian Ocean Region. The missile’s development aligns with India’s efforts to strengthen its maritime security amid growing regional tensions.
The Indian defense sector has been consistently working towards reducing dependency on foreign technology. The NASM-SR project is another successful outcome of these efforts, reinforcing the country’s commitment to self-sufficiency in defense production.
Conclusion
The successful test of India’s first Naval Anti-Ship Missile (NASM-SR) represents a significant achievement for the Indian Navy and DRDO. As India continues to enhance its defense capabilities, such advancements will play a crucial role in securing national interests and maintaining regional stability. The NASM-SR is now set to be inducted into the Indian Navy’s fleet, marking a new era in India’s naval warfare capabilities.