DRDO and Indian Army Conduct Flight-Tests of Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Army have achieved a significant milestone in the development of the Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) system. On April 3-4, four successful flight-tests of the Army version of MRSAM were conducted from Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha.
These tests demonstrated the missile’s capability to intercept high-speed aerial targets at long-range, short-range, high altitude, and low altitude, achieving direct hits in all four trials. The MRSAM system comprises multi-function radar, command post, mobile launcher system, and other vehicles.
The trials were conducted with the weapon system in operational condition, validating its performance through flight data captured by range instruments like radars and electro-optical tracking systems. Senior officials from DRDO and the Indian Army witnessed the tests, which were carried out by the Eastern and Southern Commands under DRDO guidance.
Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the Indian Army, and industries involved, stating that the successful tests re-established the capability of the weapon system in intercepting targets at critical ranges. DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V Kamat praised the teams, terming the trials as major milestones for building operational capability of the Indian Army.
The MRSAM system, developed jointly by DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries, is expected to enhance India’s air defense capabilities significantly. This achievement underscores India’s commitment to strengthening its defense infrastructure and showcases the country’s growing expertise in missile technology.
