Rudram-1

 

Rudram-1

Why In News:

India has successfully test-fired its first indigenous anti-radiation missile, the Rudram-1, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for the Indian Air Force (IAF).

About Anti Radiation Missiles:

Q     Aim: These are designed to detect, track and neutralise the adversary’s radar, communication assets and other radio frequency sources, which are generally part of their air defence systems.

Q     These can locate and target any radiation emitting source.

Q     These can play a key role in neutralising any jamming platforms of the enemy or take out radar stations thereby clearing a path for own fighters to carry out an offensive and also prevent own systems from being jammed.

Components:

Inertial navigation system: A computerised mechanism that uses changes in the object’s own position — coupled with GPS, which is satellite-based.

'Passive homing head' for Guidance: A system that can detect, classify and engage targets (radio frequency sources in this case) over a wide band of frequencies as programmed.

About Rudram-1:

Q     Development and Test: It is an air-to-surface missile, designed and developed by the DRDO.

Q     DRDO conducted a successful test of the New Generation Anti Radiation Missile (NGRAM) also called the Rudram-1 at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Balasore (Odisha).

Q     Rudram-1 is the first indigenous anti-radiation missile of the country.

Q     Capability: Once the missile locks on the target, it is capable of striking accurately even if the radiation source switches off in between.

Operational Features:

Q     The missile, integrated with SU-30 MkI aircraft, has a capability of varying ranges based on the launch conditions.

Q     It can be adapted for launch from other fighter jets too.

Q     It can be launched from altitudes of 500 m to 15 km and speeds of 0.6 to 2 mach.

Strategic Implications for India

Q     The successful test of Rudram-1 marks a significant advancement in India’s defence capabilities.

Q     With China and Pakistan posing ongoing security challenges, India’s development of indigenous anti-radiation missiles enhances its strategic deterrence.

Q     The missile’s integration with Su-30MKIs allows the IAF to conduct SEAD operations deep within enemy territory, neutralizing critical air defense installations.