The Vertical Launch Short Range Surface to Air Missile (VL-SRSAM), an indigenously designed and developed technology, has been successfully flight tested for the second time in a row. This test was carried out by the Defence Research & Development Organization (DRDO) in February this year at the Integrated Test Range located at Chandipur.
Key Features of VL-SRSAM
The VL-SRSAM is a quick reaction surface-to-air-missile specifically designed for the Indian Navy. Its primary role is to neutralize various aerial threats at close range, including sea-skimming targets. The missile boasts an operational range of 50 to km distance. One of its unique features is its mid-course inertial guidance, powered by a fiber optic gyroscope and active radar homing during the terminal phase.
The missile’s successful launch aimed to validate the integrated operation of all weapon system components. These include the vertical launcher unit with controller, canisterised flight vehicle, and the weapon control system. The successful testing of these systems plays a crucial role in preparing for future missile launches from Indian Naval ships.
The VL-SRSAM will significantly enhance the defence capability of Indian Naval Ships against aerial threats. It also paves the way for integration of weapon systems onboard Indian naval ships.
Contributors to the Development of VL-SRSAM
Several key DRDO facilities have contributed to the development of the VL-SRSAM. These include the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) and Research Centre Imarat (RCI), both based in Hyderabad. Additionally, the Research & Development Establishment (Engineers) located in Pune also played a significant role in the development of this missile system.
About Defence Research & Development Organization (DRDO)
The Defence Research & Development Organization is the Research & Development wing of the Ministry of Defence, with a vision to empower India with cutting-edge defence technologies. Established in 1958, DRDO was born by merging the Technical Development Establishment (TDEs) of the Indian Army and the Directorate of Technical Development & Production (DTDP) with the Defence Science Organization (DSO).
Aravindan Nagarajan
November 25, 2024 at 12:03 pmImpressive achievement by DRDO! The VL-SRSAM’s capabilities seem promising for enhancing naval defense. How will this impact India’s maritime security strategy moving forward?