The Indian Navy has successfully conducted the second trial of the Naval Anti-Ship Missile – Short Range (NASM-SR) on 21 November 2023 in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). This significant milestone marks another leap forward in India’s quest for self-reliance in sophisticated missile technology. The recent test, conducted during the guided flight trials, showcased the prowess of the NASM-SR. Launched from the Sea King Mk 42B helicopter, operated by the Indian Navy, this indigenous anti-surface guided weapon displayed its precision and capabilities, solidifying its position as a pivotal addition to the country’s defense arsenal. Indian Navy lauded this trial as a crucial stride in achieving autonomy in specialized missile technology, particularly in seeker and guidance systems.
The NASM-SR is a game-changing endeavor by the Defence Research and Development Organisation, designed specifically for the Indian Navy. This advanced air-launched anti-ship missile is poised to replace the aging Sea Eagle missile, addressing limitations related to flight range and take-off weight. The development of the NASM-SR was publicly disclosed in 2018 by the former Minister of Defence, Nirmala Sitharaman, with a substantial fund allocation of ?434.06 crore. Highlighted at the DefExpo 2020, the NASM-SR’s specifications revealed a Mach 0.8 capable missile with an impressive range of 55 km. Boasting an Imaging Infra-Red (IIR) seeker impervious to jamming, a state-of-the-art navigation system, and integrated avionics, this missile represents a paradigm shift in India’s indigenous defense capabilities.
What sets the NASM-SR apart is its adaptability. Beyond its helicopter launch capability, this versatile missile can be easily configured for deployment from ships and land-based vehicles. Speculation surrounds the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s development of a long-range variant, potentially targeting land-based threats. Additionally, as the Sea King helicopters phase out, the NASM-SR is slated for integration into the Indian Navy’s recently acquired MH-60R naval helicopters, ensuring a seamless transition and continuity in defense capabilities. The NASM-SR’s inaugural test in May 2022 exemplified its sea-skimming capabilities, with the missile approaching its target at a mere 5 meters above sea level. This successful trial validated its precision in hitting designated targets with a high degree of accuracy, affirming its control, guidance, and mission algorithms.
