DRDO Successfully Tests NASM-SR in Salvo Mode: Man-in-Loop Anti-Ship Missile Hits Waterline

📌 Summary:

• DRDO successfully conducted salvo-mode test of the Naval Anti-Ship Missile – Short Range (NASM-SR), demonstrating simultaneous launch of multiple missiles at a single target

• NASM-SR is a domestically developed air-launched anti-ship missile with sea-skimming capability (flies very low over sea surface to evade enemy radar)

• "Man-in-the-loop" feature allows the operator to redirect the missile mid-flight using a data link — a critical capability for engaging targets in complex threat environments

• The salvo test demonstrated precise waterline hits — targeting a ship at the hull-waterline junction maximises damage potential

• The missile fills a critical gap in Indian Navy and Indian Air Force's maritime strike capability; it is designed to replace older Sea Eagle missiles

• Developed under Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan; once inducted, NASM-SR will be carried by P-8I Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft and frontline fighters

• The test is significant amid the West Asia conflict, which has underscored importance of maritime anti-ship capabilities in contested seas

• India's coastline: 7,516 km; EEZ: 2.37 million sq km — anti-ship missiles are essential for blue-water navy ambitions