Bhubaneswar: In a significant demonstration of India’s growing defence prowess, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Army successfully conducted four back-to-back flight-tests of the Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) Army version from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the Odisha coast on April 3 and 4.
The operational flight-trials, carried out under realistic battle conditions, validated the MRSAM system’s ability to intercept high-speed aerial targets across multiple combat scenarios. The tests covered engagements at long-range, short-range, high-altitude, and low-altitude, with all four missiles registering direct hits on their respective targets.
Conducted under the guidance of DRDO, the trials were executed by Army units from the Eastern and Southern Commands, showcasing the system’s readiness for deployment. The MRSAM Army weapon system was tested in its full operational configuration, comprising a multi-function radar, command post, mobile launcher, and supporting vehicles.
Real-time tracking and validation were carried out using advanced radars and electro-optical tracking systems deployed by the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur. These tests pave the way for the operationalisation of the MRSAM system in two Army Regiments, marking a crucial milestone in India’s integrated air defence capabilities.
Developed jointly by DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), the MRSAM system is designed to neutralize various aerial threats, including fighter aircraft, helicopters, UAVs, and precision-guided munitions.
Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh lauded the success, stating that the four consecutive successful trials reaffirm the effectiveness of India’s indigenous missile systems. “This achievement strengthens the Indian Army’s preparedness and underlines our commitment to self-reliance in defence,” he said.
Dr Samir V Kamat, Secretary of Defence R&D and DRDO Chairman, congratulated all teams involved, calling the successful trials major milestones in enhancing the operational capabilities of the Indian Army.
