In a landmark achievement for India’s maritime defense, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy successfully executed the first-ever salvo launch of the Naval Anti-Ship Missile-Short Range (NASM-SR).
The test, conducted off the Odisha coast in the Bay of Bengal, involved launching two missiles in rapid succession from a dedicated naval helicopter platform.
Technical Breakthrough: The Salvo Launch
The successful salvo launch represents a significant leap in the Navy’s offensive capabilities. By firing multiple missiles nearly simultaneously, the system can overwhelm an enemy vessel’s air defense mechanisms. Key highlights of the trial include:
- Platform Integration: Seamless launch from an Indian Navy helicopter.
- Rapid Succession: Two missiles successfully tracked and engaged targets, proving the system’s reliability in high-intensity combat scenarios.
- Indigenous Precision: The NASM-SR is designed to provide localized sea-denial capabilities with high accuracy.
Advancing Warship Design and Hydrodynamics
Beyond missile testing, the DRDO’s Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL) has completed critical hydrodynamic performance assessments for a new frontline Indian Naval ship project. Using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and experimental model testing, the team achieved international benchmarks in:
- Propulsion and Resistance: Optimizing hull speed and fuel efficiency.
- Maneuverability: Ensuring high-speed agility in diverse sea states.
- Seakeeping: Enhancing the stability of future warships during rough weather.
Next-Generation Armoured Platforms Unveiled
The DRDO also showcased new Advanced Armoured Platforms (both Tracked and Wheeled) developed in Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra. These vehicles are designed to meet modern warfare demands with a focus on indigenous manufacturing, currently sitting at 65% local content with a target of 90%.
Key Features of the New Armoured Vehicles:
- Firepower: Integrated 30 mm Crewless Turrets and 7.62 mm PKT guns, capable of launching Anti-Tank Guided Missiles.
- Protection: STANAG Level 4 and 5 modular ballistic and blast protection.
- Amphibious Capability: Equipped with hydro-jets for crossing water obstacles.
- Mobility: High power-to-weight ratios with automatic transmission for superior terrain navigation.
