MRSAM
The Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) is an advanced air and missile defense system that provides protection against various aerial threats. It is a joint venture between Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), and the defense forces of India and Israel. The MRSAM has recently received significant developments, including the establishment of a joint venture to provide life cycle support.
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Overview of MRSAM
The MRSAM is an advanced air and missile defense system designed to counter various aerial platforms, including aircraft, helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and supersonic missiles. It is a mobile system that can be deployed on various platforms such as trucks, ships, and trailers. The system consists of several components, including a command and control shelter, mobile launchers, and interceptors with advanced RF seeker, as well as an advanced phased array radar.
The MRSAM was jointly developed by IAI and DRDO as part of a bilateral agreement between India and Israel. The development of the system was undertaken by the IAI subsidiary, Elta Systems, and DRDO’s Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (LRDE). The system is based on the Barak-8 missile defense system, which was developed by IAI for the Israeli Defense Forces.
Life Cycle Support Joint Venture
Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and IAI have signed a Memorandum of Agreement to establish a joint venture that will provide life cycle support for the MRSAM. The joint venture will offer maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for MRSAM systems and components. It will also undertake the manufacture and supply of spares and other support equipment.
The joint venture will be based in India, and BEL will hold a 49% stake, while IAI will hold a 51% stake. The establishment of the joint venture is a significant development for the MRSAM program, as it ensures the availability of maintenance and support services for the system over its operational life.
Significance of MRSAM
The MRSAM system provides an advanced air and missile defense capability to the Indian armed forces and the Israeli Defense Forces. It is a highly mobile system that can be deployed in various terrain and weather conditions, making it an ideal choice for India’s varied topography.
The MRSAM system has several advanced features, including the use of an advanced phased array radar that provides 360-degree coverage and can track multiple targets simultaneously. The system also uses advanced RF seeker technology that enables it to detect and track low radar cross-section targets such as UAVs and stealth aircraft.
The MRSAM system has been successfully tested several times and has demonstrated its effectiveness in countering various aerial threats. It is also being used by the Indian Navy to protect its ships from aerial threats.