DRDO & Indian Navy Conduct Successful Trials Of First Naval Anti-Ship Missile NASM-SR

Bhubaneswar, Feb 27 (KNN) The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian Navy have successfully conducted flight trials of the first-of-its-kind Naval Anti-Ship Missile (NASM-SR) from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur on February 25, 2025. 

The tests demonstrated the missile's effectiveness against maritime targets when launched from an Indian Naval Seaking Helicopter.

The trials confirmed the missile's innovative Man-in-Loop capability, achieving a direct hit on a small vessel target while operating in sea-skimming mode at maximum range. 

The system employs an Indigenous Imaging Infra-Red Seeker for terminal guidance. 

Additionally, the mission showcased an advanced high-bandwidth, two-way data link system that transmits live seeker images back to the pilot, enabling in-flight retargeting.

During the test, the missile was deployed in Bearing-only Lock-on after launch mode with multiple targets in close proximity. 

It initially locked onto a larger target within the designated search zone, but during the terminal phase, the pilot redirected it to a smaller, concealed target, resulting in a precision strike.

The NASM-SR features indigenous technology, including a Fiber Optic Gyroscope-based Inertial Navigation System, Radio Altimeter for mid-course guidance, Integrated Avionics Module, Electro-Mechanical actuators for Aerodynamic and Jet vane control, thermal batteries, and PCB warhead. 

Its propulsion system comprises solid fuel with an in-line ejectable booster and long-burn sustainer. All mission objectives were successfully achieved during the trials.

Development of the missile has been a collaborative effort across multiple DRDO laboratories, including Research Centre Imarat, Defence Research and Development Laboratory, High Energy Materials Research Laboratory, and Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory. 

Production is currently underway through Development cum Production Partners with support from MSMEs, startups, and other manufacturing partners.

Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh congratulated the DRDO, Indian Navy, and industry partners on the successful flight tests, highlighting that the Man-in-Loop feature provides unique capability for in-flight retargeting. 

(KNN Bureau)