DRDO & Indian Navy Successfully Test Naval Anti-Ship Missile

Why in the news?

DRDO and the Indian Navy successfully conducted flight trials of the Naval Anti-Ship Missile (NASM-SR) on February 25, 2025, at ITR, Chandipur. The missile, launched from a Seaking Helicopter, demonstrated precision targeting, advanced guidance systems, and in-flight retargeting capabilities.

DRDO & Indian Navy Successfully Test Naval Anti-Ship Missile

Successful Flight Trials:

  • DRDO and the Indian Navy conducted successful trials of the Naval Anti-Ship Missile (NASM-SR) on February 25, 2025, at the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur.
  • The missile was launched from an Indian Naval Seaking Helicopter and successfully hit a small ship target in sea-skimming mode at its maximum range.
  • The trials validated the missile’s Man-in-Loop feature, enabling real-time pilot intervention for target selection and retargeting.

Advanced Features & Technology

  • The missile features an Indigenous Imaging Infra-Red Seeker for terminal guidance.
  • It demonstrated a high-bandwidth two-way datalink system, transmitting live seeker images to the pilot for in-flight adjustments.
  • Launched in Bearing-only Lock-on after launch mode, it initially targeted a large object before switching to a smaller, concealed target during the terminal phase.
  • Equipped with an Indigenous Fiber Optic Gyroscope-based INS and Radio Altimeter, the missile ensures precise mid-course guidance.
  • Other key components include an Integrated Avionics Module, Electro-Mechanical Actuators, Thermal Batteries, PCB Warhead, and Solid Propulsion System.

Development & Acknowledgment

  • The missile is developed by DRDO labs, including Research Centre Imarat, Defence Research and Development Laboratory, High Energy Materials Research Laboratory, and Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory.
  • It is being produced in collaboration with Development cum Production Partners, MSMEs, Start-ups, and other Industry Players.
  • Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the Indian Navy, and Industry Partners for the successful trial, highlighting the unique in-flight retargeting capability.
  • Samir V Kamat, Chairman DRDO, also commended the team for their achievement.