New Delhi: The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy successfully conducted flight trials of the first-of-its-kind Naval Anti-Ship missile (NASM-SR) at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur on February 25, 2025, the Ministry of Defence stated here today. These trials showcased the missile’s effectiveness against maritime targets when launched from an Indian Naval Seaking Helicopter.
During the tests, the missile’s Man-in-Loop capability was validated, achieving a direct hit on a small ship target while operating in sea-skimming mode at its maximum range. The missile is equipped with an Indigenous Imaging Infra-Red Seeker for precise terminal guidance. Additionally, the mission highlighted the advanced high-bandwidth two-way datalink system, which allows for the transmission of live images from the seeker back to the pilot, enabling in-flight retargeting.
The missile was deployed using a Bearing-only Lock-on after launch mode, allowing for the selection of one target from several located nearby. Initially, it locked onto a larger target within a designated search area, but as it approached the terminal phase, the pilot adeptly shifted focus to a smaller, concealed target, achieving a strike with remarkable precision.
Equipped with an indigenous Fiber Optic Gyroscope-based Inertial Navigation System and a Radio Altimeter for mid-course guidance, the missile features an integrated avionics module and electro-mechanical actuators for aerodynamic and jet vane control. It is powered by solid propulsion, incorporating an in-line ejectable booster and a long-burn sustainer, along with thermal batteries and a PCB warhead. All trials successfully fulfilled the mission objectives.
The missile has been developed through the collaborative efforts of various DRDO laboratories, such as the Research Centre Imarat, Defence Research and Development Laboratory, High Energy Materials Research Laboratory, and Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory. Presently, the production of these missiles is underway, facilitated by Development cum Production Partners in conjunction with MSMEs, start-ups, and other manufacturing collaborators.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has congratulated DRDO, the Indian Navy and the industries for the successful flight tests. The tests for Man-in-Loop features are unique as they give the capability of in-flight retargeting, he said.
Secretary, Department of Defence Research and Development and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat also congratulated the entire DRDO team, users and Industry partners.
– global bihari bureau
