The Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with the Indian Navy, has successfully carried out the first-ever salvo launch of the Naval Anti-ship Missile–Short Range (NASM-SR) from a naval helicopter platform off the Bay of Bengal near Odisha. During the test, two missiles were fired in rapid succession from the same helicopter, marking the maiden demonstration of salvo launch capability for this advanced air-launched anti-ship missile system. According to the Press Information Bureau, this achievement represents a significant milestone in missile deployment technology.

All mission objectives were successfully met, with radar, electro-optical systems, and telemetry data confirming accurate performance. Alongside demonstrating simultaneous launch capability, the missiles achieved precise waterline targeting. The event was witnessed by senior DRDO scientists, along with representatives from the Indian Air Force and development partners.

The NASM-SR missile is equipped with a solid propulsion booster and a long-burn sustainer. It integrates several advanced, indigenously developed subsystems, including a seeker, integrated avionics, a fibre-optic gyroscope-based inertial navigation system, radio altimeter, advanced guidance and control algorithms, a high-bandwidth two-way data link, and jet-vane control. These components were developed collaboratively by various DRDO laboratories and Indian industries.

The missile was primarily developed by Research Centre Imarat, in coordination with other DRDO facilities such as the Defence Research and Development Laboratory, the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory, the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory, and the Integrated Test Range. Indian industries and startups also contributed significantly to the project, reflecting the expanding ecosystem of indigenous defence innovation.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the Indian Navy, the Indian Air Force, and industry partners on this accomplishment. He noted that the successful development of this missile would strengthen the operational capabilities of India’s armed forces and advance the country’s goal of achieving self-reliance in advanced defence technologies.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Swarajya.