February 26th 2025.
In a significant development for India's naval capabilities, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy have successfully conducted flight trials of a revolutionary anti-ship missile at the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur. The missile, which has never been tested before, was launched using a bearing-only lock-on after launch mode and had to choose a target from a cluster of potential options in close proximity.
During the initial phase of the trial, the missile locked on to a large target within a specific search zone. However, in a display of its advanced technology, the pilot was able to override the initial target and select a smaller, more hidden target with remarkable precision. This impressive feat was achieved on Tuesday, according to the Defence Ministry, using a Seaking helicopter from the Indian Navy.
The successful trials have showcased the missile's unique man-in-loop feature, where the pilot has the ability to change the target mid-flight. This was demonstrated when the missile hit a small ship target while skimming the surface of the sea at its maximum range. The missile's imaging infra-red seeker, developed in-house, provided precise terminal guidance, while the high bandwidth two-way datalink system transmitted live images back to the pilot for real-time retargeting.
The missile also boasts of indigenous technology such as a fibre optic gyroscope-based INS, a radio altimeter for mid-course guidance, and an integrated avionics module. The missile's control systems are operated by electro-mechanical actuators, and it is equipped with thermal batteries and a PCB warhead. Its propulsion system consists of a solid propellant and an in-line ejectable booster, along with a long-burn sustainer.
All the objectives of the mission were successfully met during the trials, which were conducted by various labs of the DRDO, including the Research Centre Imarat, the Defence Research and Development Laboratory, the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory, and the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory. The production of these missiles is a collaborative effort between the development partners and MSMEs, startups, and other industry players.
Congratulating the DRDO, the Indian Navy, and the industry partners, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized the uniqueness of the missile's man-in-loop feature, which provides the capability of in-flight retargeting. This achievement is a testament to India's growing prowess in the field of defence technology and will undoubtedly boost its maritime power capabilities.
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