Big boost to DRDO: India, Israel successfully test air defence system

New Delhi: In a major push to India's defence capabilities, India and Israel have successfully tested a Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) defence system. This missile defence system, developed jointly to deal with airstrikes by enemy countries, was tested last week.

The new development by the DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) is unique in itself and will greatly improve the combat capabilities of the two countries.

MRSAM is an air and missile defence system that provides imprecise defence cover to a variety of aerial platforms. According to defence experts, MRSAM can destroy enemy aircraft from a distance of 50 to 70 km.

Developed in partnership with Israel and India, MRSAM will be used in all three wings of the Indian Army. Israel's security forces will also use it. The high-tech radar, mobile launcher, interceptor, and the advanced RF seeker present in it utilise new technology. The command and control system of the defence system is also excellent.

Taking to Twitter, the Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) wrote: "IAI and DRDO successfully test launch the MRSAM air defence system last week at a test range in India. The MRSAM is an advanced path-breaking air and missile defence system that provides ultimate protection against a variety of aerial platforms."

A press release by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) on Tuesday said, last week the test was conducted at an Indian facility and validated all components of the weapons system. According to Boz Levy, CEO of Israeli defence company IAI, the MRSAM defence system was designed keeping in mind the challenges of today's era. "This success found in the trial is very important. It is a matter of pride for us to work with DRDO. We are committed to walking ahead on this path of success," Levi said. According to the response from the Israeli defence industry, the test was successfully conducted in the presence of our experts and Indian scientists. During this time, various references of flight tests were assessed which was successful on every standard.