Context: Recently, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully tested the indigenously-developed Vertically Launched Short-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (VLSRSAM), in collaboration with the Indian Navy at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) Chandipur, Odisha.
Relevance of the Topic:Prelims: Key facts about VLSRSAM (Vertically Launched Short-Range Surface-to-Air Missile).
About VLSRSAM
- VLSRSAM (Vertically Launched Short-Range Surface-to-Air Missile) is a ship-borne surface-to-air missile.
- Designed To: Neutralise airborne threats including- aircraft, helicopters, drones, and other incoming missiles, particularly at short ranges.
Key details of VLSRSAM:
- Launch Mode: Fired from a land-based vertical launcher.
- Weight: ~170 kg, and is powered by a solid propellant.
- Maximum speed: Mach 4.5
- Maximum altitude: 16 km, and has a range sufficient to engage high-speed targets.
- Guidance System:
- Mid-course phase: Uses a fibre-optic gyroscope-based inertial guidance system, ensuring stable flight towards the target.
- Terminal phase: Switches to active radar homing for precise target acquisition and guidance. Can engage targets with high accuracy even at low altitudes.
Recent Successful flight-Test
- Near-Boundary-Low Altitude Capability: Demonstrated the missile’s ability to operate effectively at low altitudes.
- Technological aspects: The missile successfully destroyed the target, exhibiting:
- High turn rate for engaging close-range threats.
- Pin-point accuracy and reliability in operation.
- Key components tested: Indigenous Radio Frequency (RF) Seeker; Multi-Function Radar; Weapon Control System. All elements performed as expected in combat configuration.
Significance:
- Tested for reliability and accuracy. Demonstrates agility and precision in targeting, making it highly effective against fast-moving, low-flying aerial threats.
- Force multiplier for the Indian Navy, significantly enhancing its air defence capabilities, particularly in protecting high-value assets in the maritime domain.
- Enhances India's self-reliance in defence technology.