The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted a flight test of the Supersonic Missile Assisted Release of Torpedo (SMART), an anti-submarine missile system on Wednesday May 1, 2024 from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, situated off the coast of Odisha.
Defence sources said the anti-submarine system was tested from a ground-based mobile launcher positioned at the launching complex 4 of Abdul Kalam Island. During the test, the full range capability of the missile was successfully demonstrated.
Designed and developed by DRDO, SMART is a next-generation missile-based lightweight torpedo delivery system that will enhance the anti-submarine warfare capability of the Indian Navy far beyond the conventional range of lightweight torpedo.
Designed and developed by DRDO, SMART is a next-generation missile-based lightweight torpedo delivery system that will enhance the anti-submarine warfare capability of the Indian Navy
Further, this canister-based missile system incorporates several advanced subsystems, including a two-stage solid propulsion system, electromechanical actuator system, and precision inertial navigation system. During the test several state-of-the-art mechanisms such as symmetric separation, ejection and velocity control were validated in this test.
The anti-submarine system SMART is equipped with an advanced lightweight torpedo as its payload, delivered via a parachute-based release system to aid Indian navy’s anti-submarine warfare capabilities
Essentially, SMART is a next-generation missile-based lightweight torpedo delivery system. It comprises of a long-range supersonic missile carrier that can travel up to 643 kms, and a lightweight torpedo with a range of 20 kms and a 50 kg high explosive warhead as the payload.
The missile uses a two-stage solid propulsion system, electromechanical actuators, precision inertial navigation, and a data link for mid-course updates and terminal homing of the torpedo.
SMART is aimed at countering the increasing deployment of submarines by the Chinese navy in the Indian Ocean region and enhancing India’s self-reliance in defence capabilities.
Essentially, SMART is a next-generation missile-based lightweight torpedo delivery system, comprising a long-range supersonic missile carrier that can travel up to 643 kms
Defence minister Rajnath Singh praised the DRDO and the industry partners on the successful flight-test of SMART, saying: The development of the system will further enhance the strength of our Navy.
Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat also lauded the synergistic efforts of the entire SMART team and urged it to continue on the path of excellence.
-The writer is a New Delhi-based senior commentator on international and strategic affairs, environmental issues, an interfaith practitioner, and a media consultant. The views expressed are personal and do not necessarily carry the views of Raksha Anirveda
