The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Army successfully conducted four flight-tests of the Army version of the Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha.
Key Highlights of the Tests
- All four operational flight-trials were conducted against high-speed aerial targets.
- The missile successfully intercepted and destroyed targets at long-range, short-range, high altitude and low altitude
- This validates the operational versatility of the system.
System Performance & Validation
- The MRSAM system was tested in fully operational configuration.
- Performance was monitored through radars, electro-optical tracking systems and data was collected by Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur.
Operational Significance
- Successful tests pave the way for operationalisation of the system in two Army Regiments.
- Demonstrates the battle-readiness and effectiveness of the weapon system in varied combat scenarios.
About MRSAM (Army Version)
- It is a high-response, vertically launched supersonic missile
- Jointly developed by DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI).
- Designed to neutralize aerial threats such as enemy aircraft, UAVs, and missiles within a medium range.
- MRSAM Weapon System comprises multi-function radar, command post, mobile launcher system and other integrated vehicles.
- MRSAM is part of a family of missiles designed to defend against various aerial threats. Earlier versions of the missile have already been inducted into the Indian Air Force and Navy.
Strategic Importance
- Reinforces India’s capability in indigenously developed air defence systems.
- Enhances Army’s preparedness to counter aerial threats across terrains and altitudes.