The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has recently made headlines for conducting two successful flight tests of the Army version of Medium Range Surface to Air Missile (MRSAM) at Chandipur’s Integrated Test Range, off the Odisha coast. The trials were part of live firing exercises against high-speed aerial targets, including a medium-altitude long-range target and low-altitude short-range target. The first-ever test of MRSAM for the Indian Army was conducted in 2020. This article provides an in-depth examination of this advanced defence system.
What is the MRSAM?
The MRSAM, or Medium Range Surface to Air Missile, is an Army variant of a surface to air missile developed collaboratively by the DRDO in India and the Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) in Israel. Specifically designed for use by the Indian Army, the MRSAM consists of three key components: a command and control post, a multi-function radar, and a mobile launcher system.
The Capabilities of MRSAM
Considered a high response, quick reaction missile, the MRSAM is launched vertically and travels at supersonic speeds. It is intended to neutralise threats from the air, such as enemy missiles, aircraft, guided bombs, and helicopters. While it exceeds the speed of sound (Mach 1), it does not exceed Mach-3. The Army, Navy, and Air Force all use different MRSAM variants.
In May 2019, there was a milestone cooperative engagement firing of the MRSAM naval variant, executed by the Indian Navy, DRDO and IAI.
The Barak Air and Missile Defence System
The MRSAM is a land-based variant of the Barak Air and Missile Defence System (AMD). Israel developed the Barak AMD to protect its economic zones and infrastructure from various threats. The Indian government purchased the Barak AMD from Israel.
Missile Management System and Specifications
The missile management system of the MRSAM uses radar technology to track and correctly identify targets. It calculates targets’ distances and provides comprehensive data to the Commander for interception decisions.
The MRSAM measures 4.5 metres in length and weighs approximately 275 kg. It is equipped with fins and canards which stabilise the missile’s flight and enhance its manoeuvrability. Powering the MRSAM is a solid propulsion system, paired with a thrust vector control system. This advanced defense mechanism has the capability to engage multiple targets up to a range of 70 km.
UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
A question related to the MRSAM appeared in the UPSC Civil Services Examination in 2008: “From which one of the following did India buy the Barak anti-missile defence systems?” The options were (a) Israel (b) France(c) Russia (d) USA. The correct answer was (a) Israel.
These tests and technologies not only signal progress in India’s national defence capabilities but also highlight the country’s commitment to collaborative global defence initiatives. As technologies and threats continue to evolve, the crucial role of systems like the MRSAM will undoubtedly continue to grow.
