Context:
The Indian Navy, in association with DRDO, successfully undertook Guided Flight Trials of the first indigenously developed Naval Anti-Ship Missile Short Range (NASM-SR) from a Sea King 42B helicopter recently.
Relevance:
GS III: Science and Technology
Dimensions of the Article:
- Naval Anti-Ship Missile Short Range (NASM-SR): An Overview
Naval Anti-Ship Missile Short Range (NASM-SR): An Overview
Development and Origin:
- The NASM-SR is the first indigenous air-launched anti-ship cruise missile created exclusively for the Indian Navy.
- Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
Launch Platform:
- Designed to be launched from attack helicopters, providing a versatile and strategic maritime strike capability.
Replacement for Sea Eagle:
- Intended to replace the existing Sea Eagle missiles currently deployed by the Navy.
- Integration with MH-60R Multi-Role Helicopters:
- Expected to be utilized with the new MH-60R multi-role helicopters, gradually being introduced into the Indian Navy.
Key Features:
- Guidance System: Equipped with a new guidance system featuring a state-of-the-art navigation system and integrated avionics.
- Launcher Technology: Incorporates an indigenously developed launcher specifically designed for helicopters.
- Speed and Range: Possesses a strike range of approximately 60 km and can attain a speed of Mach 0.8.
- Imaging Infrared Seeker: Utilizes an imaging infrared seeker to home in on target heat emissions.
- Warhead Capability: Equipped with a warhead weighing 100 kg, demonstrating effectiveness against patrol boats and larger warships.
- Sea Skimming Capability: The missile, during its approach, can cruise at a mere 5 meters above sea level, making it challenging for enemy radars to detect and counter.
Strategic Advantage:
- The low-level capability, known as sea skimming, enhances the missile’s evasiveness, making it difficult for enemy defenses to detect, track, and intercept using surface-to-air missiles or guns.
-Source: The Hindu
