The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy on Wednesday successfully conducted flight trials of the first-of-its-kind Naval Anti-Ship Missile (NASM-SR) from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur.
The missile, launched from an Indian Navy Sea King helicopter, demonstrated its capability against ship targets, marking a significant advancement in India’s defense technology, said the Ministry of Defence in a statement.
During the trial, the missile engaged a small ship target in sea-skimming mode at its maximum range, successfully validating its Man-in-Loop feature. This capability enables real-time target selection and in-flight retargeting, enhancing operational flexibility. The missile is equipped with an indigenous Imaging Infra-Red Seeker for terminal guidance, ensuring high-accuracy strikes.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the Indian Navy, and industry partners on the successful flight test, emphasizing that the Man-in-Loop feature is a critical advancement, offering in-flight retargeting capabilities.
A crucial aspect of the test was the demonstration of a high-bandwidth, two-way datalink system, which enables the pilot to receive live seeker images and make necessary targeting adjustments mid-flight. The missile was launched in Bearing-Only Lock-on After Launch mode, initially locking onto a large target within a designated search zone. However, during the terminal phase, the pilot successfully redirected it toward a smaller, concealed target, achieving a direct hit with pinpoint accuracy.
The missile incorporates advanced indigenous technologies, including a Fiber Optic Gyroscope-based Inertial Navigation System (INS), a Radio Altimeter for mid-course guidance, an Integrated Avionics Module, and Electro-Mechanical Actuators for aerodynamic and jet vane control. It also features a solid propulsion system with an in-line ejectable booster and a long-burn sustainer. The trials successfully validated all mission objectives.
Developed by multiple DRDO laboratories, including the Research Centre Imarat, Defence Research and Development Laboratory, High Energy Materials Research Laboratory, and Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory, the missile is being produced in collaboration with Development cum Production Partners, MSMEs, and start-ups.
