Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Mar 26: India’s defence capabilities received a significant boost as the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy successfully conducted a flight test of the indigenously developed Vertically-Launched Short-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (VLSRSAM) on Wednesday.

The missile test took place at noon at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha. Fired from a land-based vertical launcher, the missile effectively intercepted a high-speed aerial target at a very close range and low altitude, demonstrating its Near-Boundary-Low Altitude capability.

During the test, the missile executed a high turn rate to engage the target with precision, completely destroying it. The successful interception showcased the missile's agility, reliability, and pinpoint accuracy. The trial was conducted with all weapon system components in combat configuration, including an indigenous Radio Frequency seeker, Multi-Function Radar, and Weapon Control System, all of which performed as expected.
The system’s performance was validated using flight data captured by advanced range instruments developed by ITR Chandipur.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the Indian Navy, and industry partners, calling the missile system a testament to India's growing expertise in defence research and development. "It will serve as an excellent force multiplier for the Navy," he stated.

DRDO Chairman and Secretary of Defence R&D, Dr. Samir V. Kamat, also lauded the success, emphasizing that the missile is equipped with modern technologies that will further enhance the Indian armed forces' operational capabilities.

This successful test marks another step forward in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in defence technology and strengthens its maritime air defence capabilities.