India Enhances Maritime Power with Successful Trials of Naval Anti-Ship Missile (NASM-SR)
In a significant advancement for India’s maritime defense capabilities, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy successfully conducted flight trials of the innovative naval anti-ship missile (NASM-SR) at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur. This milestone underscores India’s growing prowess in developing advanced indigenous weaponry.
The missile was launched in a bearing-only lock-on after launch mode, with multiple targets in close proximity to ensure the selection of a specific one. Initially, the missile locked onto a large target within a predefined search zone. During the terminal phase of the flight, the pilot redirected the missile to a smaller, hidden target, demonstrating exceptional accuracy as the missile struck with pinpoint precision.
The Defence Ministry confirmed that the trials, conducted on Tuesday, showcased the missile’s effectiveness against ship targets when launched from a Seaking helicopter of the Navy. The tests not only confirmed the missile’s capability in sea-skimming mode but also highlighted its man-in-loop feature, allowing for real-time adjustments during flight. Notably, the missile scored a direct hit on a small ship target, operating at its maximum range.
The NASM-SR missile is equipped with an indigenous imaging infrared seeker for terminal guidance. It also demonstrated a high-bandwidth two-way datalink system, transmitting live images from the seeker back to the pilot for in-flight retargeting. The missile’s mid-course guidance leverages an indigenous fiber-optic gyroscope-based inertial navigation system (INS) and radio altimeter. Additionally, it integrates a variety of advanced systems, including electro-mechanical actuators for aerodynamic control, thermal batteries, and a PCB warhead. The missile’s solid propulsion system features an in-line ejectable booster and a long-burn sustainer for extended range.
Developed by multiple DRDO labs, including the Research Centre Imarat, the Defence Research and Development Laboratory, and the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory, the missile’s production involves a collaborative effort with MSMEs, startups, and other industry partners.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the DRDO, Indian Navy, and industry collaborators for the successful flight tests, particularly noting the importance of the man-in-loop feature, which enables in-flight retargeting capabilities. This achievement marks a key step toward strengthening India’s naval defense systems and enhancing its strategic capabilities in the maritime domain.
