The Indian Army recently conducted the maiden test of the Medium Range Surface to Air Missile (MRSAM) system. This marks a significant leap in India’s defence capabilities.
About the Army Variant of MRSAM
Developed jointly by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), the MRSAM is a surface-to-air missile system designed specifically for the Indian Army. The system comprises a command and control post, multi-function radar, and a mobile launcher system.
Features of MRSAM
MRSAM is a high-response, quick-reaction, vertically launched supersonic missile. Its design aim is the neutralisation of enemy aerial threats including missiles, aircraft, guided bombs and helicopters. Supersonic missiles, like MRSAM, exceed the speed of sound (Mach 1) but do not surpass Mach-3. This makes them incredibly fast and difficult to counter. The MRSAM has different variants for use by the Army, Navy and Air Force.
In May 2019, a maiden co-operative engagement firing of the naval version of MRSAM was conducted by the Indian Navy, DRDO, and IAI. It’s worth noting that MRSAM is a land-based variant of the Barak Air and Missile Defence System (AMD).
India-Israel Defence Cooperation
Israel has consistently ranked among the top four arms suppliers to India over the past two decades. Annually, military sales from Israel to India amount to around USD 1 billion. The Indian armed forces have plans to induct next-generation Barak-8 surface-to-air missile systems, which fall under three joint DRDO-IAI projects estimated to be worth over Rs. 30,000 crore.
Over the years, the Indian armed forces have inducted a comprehensive array of Israeli weapon systems. This includes Phalcon AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control Systems), Heron, Searcher-II and Harop drones, Barak anti-missile defence systems and Spyder quick-reaction anti-aircraft missile systems.
Additionally, the acquisitions also comprise an assortment of Israeli missiles and precision-guided munitions. Some notable examples include Python and Derby air-to-air missiles and Crystal Maze and Spice-2000 bombs.
Through this cooperation, India strengthens its defense capabilities while making significant contributions to the global arms market. The recent maiden test of MRSAM indicates an encouraging progress in India’s efforts to improve its defense systems and augment national security.