DRDO demonstrates the nation's next-gen defence capabilities

📌 Summary:

• DRDO successfully demonstrated multiple crucial defence technologies via three consecutive flight-tests on 10 & 11 June 2026
• Multi-layered Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) capability was demonstrated; interceptors successfully engaged their respective targets
• The tests place India in the elite group of nations with BMD capability able to engage up to Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs)
• Maiden flight-test of the Naval Anti-Ship Missile–Medium Range (NASM-MR) was also carried out successfully
• Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO; trials monitored by DRDO Chairman Rajesh Kumar Singh

🎯 UPSC Relevance: GS3 Science & Technology (indigenous defence tech) and Internal/External Security — strategic deterrence and self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence).

📝 Prelims Facts:

• Flight-tests conducted on 10–11 June 2026
• Systems tested: multi-layered Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD); Naval Anti-Ship Missile–Medium Range (NASM-MR), maiden test
• BMD capability claimed effective up to Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs)

🔑 Key Term: Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) — a layered system to detect, track and intercept incoming ballistic missiles before they reach their target.