Context: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) tested a next-generation Supersonic Missile-Assisted Release of Torpedo (SMART) system aimed at boosting the Navy’s anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
About Supersonic Missile-Assisted Release of Torpedo (SMART) system:
- It is a missile-based system designed to significantly extend the range of lightweight torpedoes that can target submarines hundreds of kilometres away far beyond the conventional range of lightweight torpedoes (around 20-40 km).
- It will be particularly employed in the absence of other assets for immediate action when an enemy submarine is detected.
- The canister-based missile system comprises several advanced subsystems including two-stage solid propulsion, precision inertial navigation, and a precision inertial navigation system, among others.
- It carries an advanced lightweight torpedo missile as a payload along with a parachute-based release mechanism.
- The system has been designed to enhance anti-submarine warfare capability far beyond the conventional range of the torpedo.