The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Army have executed four successful test launches for the Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM).
The flight-tests, which were conducted from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, off the coast of Odisha, saw the missiles engage high-speed targets in the air, achieving direct hits and confirming their destruction.
The trials aimed to validate the missile’s effectiveness at various distances and altitudes, demonstrating its readiness for operational use.
These tests were conducted using fully operational weapon systems and their performance was meticulously recorded by an array of range instruments including radars and electro-optical tracking systems managed by Integrated Test Range in Chandipur.
High-ranking officials from both DRDO and the Indian Army were present to witness these trials.
The execution of these trials was led by the Indian Army units from Eastern and Southern Commands with guidance provided by DRDO experts.
The success of these tests marks a significant step towards incorporating this missile system into two Army Regiments, enhancing their defensive capabilities, the Indian Ministry of Defence noted.
The MRSAM is a collaborative effort between DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries designed specifically for the Indian Army.
It includes a sophisticated multi-function radar, command post, mobile launchers, and support vehicles within its system architecture.
Following these successful flight-tests, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said that these successful launches reaffirm the weapon system’s ability to engage targets effectively at pivotal ranges.
DRDO chairman Dr Samir Kamat praised all teams involved in this achievement. He described these successful trials as critical milestones in advancing the operational capabilities of the Indian Army.
Earlier in January 2025, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and IAI announced the formation of a joint venture company, BEL IAI AeroSystems, based in Delhi.
This entity will serve as the single point of contact for long-term product support for the MRSAM systems used by India’s Defence Forces.
In 2022, DRDO conducted two flight tests of the MRSAM system at the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur.
