Indian Navy Successfully Fires MRSAM from INS Surat in Arabian Sea, Boosting Air Defense Capabilities

New Delhi, April 24 In a significant stride towards strengthening India’s maritime defense, the Indian Navy has successfully conducted a test-firing of the Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) from INS Surat, one of its newest indigenously-built guided missile destroyers. The missile intercepted and destroyed aerial targets with pinpoint accuracy in the Arabian Sea, demonstrating India’s growing prowess in naval warfare and indigenous defense technology.

Successful Intercept Demonstrates Combat Readiness

The MRSAM, developed jointly by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), hit its target from a distance of 70 kilometers, showcasing its operational capabilities in real-time combat scenarios. The test was conducted under high-security protocols near Chandipur Integrated Test Range, off the coast of Odisha.

Speaking on the achievement, Navy spokesperson Captain Vivek Madhwal stated that the successful test of MRSAM from INS Surat marks a “major milestone in the Indian Navy’s self-reliance in indigenous warship and missile development.” The missile’s accuracy and reliability reaffirm the Navy’s defense capabilities in protecting national maritime interests.

About the MRSAM System

The MRSAM (Barak-8 variant) is an advanced air defense system with 360-degree all-weather operational capabilities. Key specifications include:

• Weight: 275 kg

• Length: 4.5 meters

• Range: Up to 70 km

• Warhead Capacity: Up to 60 kg

• Speed: Approx. 2,469.6 km/h

• Target Capabilities: Capable of neutralizing fighter jets, drones, helicopters, surveillance aircraft, and sub/supersonic missiles.

The missile system is designed for quick deployment, precision targeting, and minimal smoke emission, making it ideal for naval warfare.

A Boost to ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’

Manufactured by Bharat Dynamics Limited, the MRSAM is a crucial component of India’s defense manufacturing roadmap under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The successful deployment on INS Surat highlights India’s increasing self-reliance in cutting-edge defense technology and reflects a decisive shift toward indigenous capability development.

The Indian Navy continues to play a pivotal role in safeguarding national interests through innovations in defense and enhanced maritime capabilities.

MRSAM Deployment in Indian Armed Forces

• The Indian Army has deployed its first MRSAM regiment in the Eastern Theatre, protecting against aerial threats from UAVs, fighter jets, and enemy missiles.

• The Indian Air Force has also inducted MRSAM systems as part of its growing multi-layered air defense infrastructure, following the successful integration of the Akash missile system.

With this successful test, the Indian Navy reaffirms its commitment to combat readiness and the nation’s larger strategic vision for a self-reliant and secure India.