“DRDO Successfully Tests MRSAM Army Version Against High-Speed Aerial Targets – A Major Milestone Achieved!”

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted two back-to-back tests of the Army version of the Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) against high-speed aerial targets at different ranges off the coast of Odisha. The tests took place at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) Chandipur as part of live firing trials.

During the tests, the missiles intercepted and completely destroyed the aerial targets with direct hits at both ranges. The first launch targeted a medium-altitude long-range target, while the second launch demonstrated the capability against a low altitude short-range target. The MRSAM version is a Surface-to-Air Missile developed jointly by DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) for the Indian Army, with the initial test conducted in December 2020.

The MRSAM Army weapon system includes a multi-function radar, mobile launcher system, and other vehicles. Flight tests were conducted with the weapon system in a deliverable configuration, with performance validation based on data captured by range instruments like radars, electro-optical tracking systems, and telemetry provided by ITR Chandipur. Senior officials from DRDO and the Indian Army were present during the flight tests.

Two DRDO facilities have played key roles in developing the missile system. The ground system and launcher were developed by the Research and Development Establishment (Engineers) in Pune, while the High Energy Material Research Laboratory contributed to the propellant.

Defence Minister congratulated DRDO, the Indian Army, and the Industry for the successful flight tests of MRSAM-Army, emphasizing the system’s capability to intercept targets at critical ranges. DRDO Chairman Dr G Satheesh Reddy praised the teams involved in the successful flight trials of the Army version of MRSAM, noting these tests as significant milestones for ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’.