The VLSRSAM during its test-flight at the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur. (Photo: DRDO)
New Delhi: The Defence Research and Development Organization, in collaboration with the Indian Navy, successfully conducted a flight test of the indigenously developed vertical-launch short-range surface-to-air missile (VLSRSAM), the Ministry of Defence said in a statement on Wednesday. The test was carried out at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, Odisha, marking another milestone in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in defence technology.
The statement said the VLSRSAM was launched from a land-based vertical launcher and demonstrated its capability by effectively engaging a high-speed aerial target flying at low altitude. This trial validated several upgraded features of the missile system, including its advanced proximity fuse and seeker. The missile’s performance was meticulously tracked using multiple instruments such as radar systems, electro-optical tracking systems, and telemetry equipment deployed at the test site.
The defence minister, Rajnath Singh, lauded the teams involved for their achievement, describing the successful test as a reaffirmation of the weapon system’s reliability. He further emphasized that the VLSRSAM will act as a force multiplier for the Navy. Samir V Kamat, chairman of DRDO, also congratulated the scientists and engineers. Highlighting the successful testing of the missile, he said this indigenous system will significantly bolster India’s naval defence capabilities.
The VLSRSAM is designed to neutralize various aerial threats, including fighter aircraft and sea-skimming anti-ship missiles. It is based on the Astra Mark 1 air-to-air missile and features advanced technologies such as fibre-optic gyroscope-based inertial navigation for mid-course guidance and active radar homing for terminal phase targeting. With an operational range of 50 kilometres and a maximum speed of Mach 4.5, it is capable of providing robust area and point defence for naval platforms. The missile is intended to replace the ageing Barak 1 system currently in service with the Navy.
As India Sentinels had reported, the DRDO had conducted back-to-back tests of the VLSRSAM from the same test range in in September 2024.
This latest test adds to a series of successful trials conducted since the missile’s maiden launch in February 2021. Over the years, these tests have demonstrated its vertical launch capability, precision targeting, and seamless integration with weapon control systems. The system has been developed under DRDO’s development-cum-production partner programme, involving both public and private sector entities.
The VLSRSAM represents a significant step forward in India’s indigenous defence manufacturing efforts. Once deployed on naval ships such as destroyers, frigates, and aircraft carriers, it will enhance their ability to counter evolving aerial threats effectively. This achievement underscores India’s growing capability to develop cutting-edge military technologies independently while reducing reliance on foreign imports.
