DRDO and Indian Navy Conduct Maiden Salvo Launch of NASM-SR Missile

The landmark test was carried out from a naval helicopter platform off the coast of Odisha in the Bay of Bengal, marking a critical milestone in India’s pursuit of advanced, self-reliant defence systems.

In a significant boost to India's maritime strike capabilities and indigenous defence technology, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with the Indian Navy, has successfully conducted the maiden salvo launch of the Naval Anti-Ship Missile – Short Range (NASM-SR). The landmark test was carried out from a naval helicopter platform off the coast of Odisha in the Bay of Bengal, marking a critical milestone in India's pursuit of advanced, self-reliant defence systems.

What sets this trial apart is its complexity and technological sophistication. For the first time, two NASM-SR missiles were launched in quick succession from the same airborne platform, demonstrating the system's ability to execute a salvo strike — a capability that significantly enhances lethality in real-world combat scenarios by overwhelming enemy defences. This achievement positions India among a select group of nations capable of deploying advanced air-launched anti-ship missile systems with rapid sequential firing capability.

According to official data released after the trial, all mission objectives were met with high precision. The missiles successfully demonstrated their waterline hit capability, a critical feature designed to inflict maximum structural damage to enemy vessels by targeting the most vulnerable section of a ship. The accuracy and effectiveness of the strikes were validated through an array of sophisticated tracking systems, including radar networks, electro-optical sensors, and telemetry instruments deployed at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur.

The NASM-SR system reflects a high degree of indigenous innovation, integrating cutting-edge technologies developed across multiple DRDO laboratories and Indian industry partners. The missile is powered by a solid propulsion booster coupled with a long-burn sustainer, ensuring optimal thrust and extended engagement capability. It is equipped with an advanced seeker system, enabling precise target acquisition even in challenging maritime environments.

One of the standout features of the missile is its navigation and guidance architecture. It uses a fibre-optic gyroscope-based Inertial Navigation System (INS), supported by a radio altimeter for enhanced low-altitude flight accuracy. This allows the missile to execute sea-skimming trajectories, making it harder to detect and intercept. Additionally, the integration of advanced control and guidance algorithms ensures dynamic adaptability during flight, improving hit probability against moving targets.

The missile also incorporates a high-bandwidth two-way data link, enabling real-time communication between the missile and the launch platform. This capability allows for mid-course updates and retargeting if required, adding a layer of operational flexibility. The inclusion of jet-vane control technology further enhances maneuverability, ensuring stability and precision during high-speed flight.

The development of NASM-SR has been spearheaded by the Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad, with critical contributions from several other DRDO laboratories, including the Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL), Hyderabad; High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL), Pune; Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL), Chandigarh; and the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur. The programme also reflects strong collaboration with Development-cum-Production Partners (DcPP), Indian industries, and emerging defence start-ups, underscoring the growing ecosystem of indigenous defence manufacturing.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the successful test as a major step forward in strengthening India's defence preparedness. He commended the DRDO, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, and industry partners for their coordinated efforts, noting that the development of such advanced missile systems would significantly enhance the operational capabilities of the armed forces.

Dr. Samir V Kamat, Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, also congratulated the teams involved, highlighting the importance of the achievement in advancing India's self-reliance in critical defence technologies.

The successful demonstration of the NASM-SR comes at a time when maritime security is becoming increasingly crucial in the Indo-Pacific region. With expanding naval presence and evolving threats in strategic waters, the ability to deploy precise, rapid-response anti-ship systems from airborne platforms provides India with a decisive tactical advantage.

Defence analysts note that the successful salvo launch capability, combined with precision targeting and advanced guidance systems, could significantly alter naval engagement dynamics. It enables helicopters and potentially other aerial platforms to act as force multipliers, delivering high-impact strikes without exposing larger naval assets to risk.

As production of the NASM-SR begins to scale up with industry participation, the missile is expected to be inducted into operational service in the near future. Its deployment will not only strengthen India's maritime deterrence but also reinforce the country's position as a global player in advanced defence technology development.