India unveils new naval missile to counter Mach 7 anti-ship ballistic missiles.

According to information published by Vinay Sadham on August 20, 2024, India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is advancing the Indian Navy's defensive capabilities with the development of a new long-range surface-to-air missile.
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Artist rendering of a new long-range surface-to-air missile. (Picture source: Generated by AI)

This missile, with a range exceeding 250 kilometers, is engineered to intercept Anti-Ship Ballistic Missiles (ASBMs) traveling at speeds up to Mach 7, providing the navy with a formidable defense against a spectrum of aerial threats.

The missile is believed to be a naval variant from the Long Range Surface-to-Air Missile (LRSAM) system, under development as part of Project Kusha.

This project encompasses a suite of three long-range air defense missiles, with ranges spanning 150 km, 250-300 km, and 400 km, drawing comparisons to Russia's S-400 system. While the DRDO is also working on a ballistic missile defense shield to protect India from long-range nuclear threats.

The urgency for developing such capabilities stems from the increasing global threat posed by ASBMs, which are ballistic missiles repurposed to target naval vessels.

These missiles, known for their high speed and devastating impact, have emerged as a significant threat to modern navies. China pioneered the development of ASBMs, with systems like the DF-21D, often referred to as the "carrier killer," capable of targeting aircraft carriers at extended ranges. Other nations, including Iran and the United States, have followed suit, recognizing the strategic value of these weapons.

Last year, the DRDO and the Indian Navy successfully tested a Naval Ballistic Missile Defense System, capable of intercepting nuclear missiles both in space and within Earth's atmosphere.

The development of the new long-range surface-to-air missile is poised to add another layer to this defense network. The missile's dual capability, akin to the American SM-6, will allow it to intercept both aircraft and ballistic missiles, forming a comprehensive multi-layered defense system.