The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy have successfully tested the Naval Anti-Ship Missile (NASM-SR) at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, Odisha. It marks a significant achievement for India's defence sector.

This advanced missile, launched from an Indian Naval Seaking helicopter, demonstrated its capability to strike maritime targets. The trials also highlighted its cutting-edge "Man-in-Loop" feature, allowing in-flight retargeting for greater operational flexibility.

The missile struck a small ship target during the test using sea-skimming mode at its maximum range. It relied on an indigenous Imaging Infra-Red (IIR) Seeker for terminal guidance that ensured high precision.

One of the key achievements of the mission was the successful use of a high-bandwidth two-way datalink system. This system transmitted real-time seeker images to the pilot, enabling in-flight target selection and retargeting. The missile was launched in "Bearing-only Lock-on after Launch" mode, allowing it to differentiate between multiple nearby targets. Initially, it locked onto a large target within its search zone, but the pilot redirected it mid-flight to a smaller, concealed target during the terminal phase, achieving pinpoint accuracy.

The NASM-SR missile has advanced indigenous technology, including a Fiber Optic Gyroscope-based Inertial Navigation System (INS) and a Radio Altimeter for mid-course guidance. It also integrates a sophisticated avionics module, electro-mechanical actuators for aerodynamic and jet vane control, thermal batteries and a PCB warhead. The missile is powered by a solid propulsion system featuring an in-line ejectable booster and a long-burn sustainer.

Its development involved multiple DRDO laboratories, including the Research Centre Imarat, Defence Research and Development Laboratory, High Energy Materials Research Laboratory, and Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory. The missile is being produced through Development cum Production Partners, working alongside MSMEs, startups and other industry collaborators.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised DRDO, the Indian Navy, and industry partners for the successful test, highlighting the importance of the "Man-in-Loop" capability for in-flight retargeting.

Dr. Samir V Kamat, Secretary of Defence R&D and DRDO Chairman, also commended the DRDO team, the Navy, and industry collaborators' efforts in achieving this technological milestone.