India Successfully Test Fires Its First Indigenous Micro-Missile System, 'Bhargavastra'.
Science and Technology
In January 2025, Economic Explosives Limited (EEL), a subsidiary of Solar Industries India Limited, successfully test-fired India's first guided micro-missiles as part of its 'Bhargavastra' counter-drone system, developed independently by the private sector without formal requests from the Indian Armed Forces.
- This system, developed by Economic Explosives Limited (EEL) without formal requisitions from the Indian Armed Forces, is designed for the Indian Army and successfully hit virtual targets over 2.5 km away.
- This system, designed to address the growing threat of loitering munitions and weaponized drones, utilizes advanced micro-missiles to efficiently detect, target, and destroy enemy drones at a cost-effective rate.
- Key Trials: In January 2025, the Bhargavastra system underwent successful trials at Gopalpur Seaward Firing Ranges, Odisha, hitting both stationary and moving targets at a range of 2,500 meters. Further extensive trials are planned for potential military induction.
Main Point :- (i) The Bhargavastra system, designed for the Indian Army, can detect small flying objects up to 6 km away and operate at altitudes of up to 5,000 meters. Its advanced radar can identify medium to large drones within a 10 km range and small drones at 6 km, even with low radar cross-section (RCS).
(ii) The system can fire over 64 micro-missiles simultaneously, making it an effective and cost-efficient alternative to expensive surface-to-air missiles. It is optimized to counter drone swarms and offers an edge over traditional methods like jamming or spoofing.
(iii) Designed for various terrains, including high-altitude regions, the system is mounted on a mobile platform for rapid deployment, enhancing its adaptability and responsiveness in diverse combat scenarios.
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