INS Mormugao

Indigenous guided missile destroyer

In News: Carried out engagement of Sea Skimming supersonic missile.

Introduction:

The Indian Navy has recently achieved significant milestones in its pursuit of advanced missile defense capabilities. The successful engagement of a sea-skimming supersonic target by the indigenous guided missile destroyer, INS Mormugao, highlights the Navy's commitment to self-reliance and future-proof combat readiness. In addition, India's maiden test of a sea-based ballistic missile interceptor places the country in an exclusive club of nations possessing this vital defense capability.

What is Sea Skimming?

Sea skimming is a tactical technique used by missiles or aircraft to fly at extremely low altitudes just above the surface of the water. By maintaining a constant height just a few meters above the water, the flying object takes advantage of the surface as cover, reducing the chances of detection by radar systems and making it difficult for anti-aircraft defenses to engage. This approach maximizes the effectiveness of sea-skimming missiles or aircraft in penetrating enemy defenses, as their low-altitude trajectory increases their chances of reaching their intended targets, such as ships or coastal installations, while minimizing the risk of detection and interception.

What is Sea Skimming Supersonic Target?

A sea-skimming supersonic target refers to a high-speed object, such as a missile, that employs the tactical technique of flying at very low altitudes just above the water's surface while maintaining supersonic speed. By utilizing this approach, the target reduces the chances of detection by radar systems and enhances its ability to evade anti-aircraft defenses. The combination of flying at low altitudes and supersonic velocities makes sea-skimming supersonic targets extremely challenging to track and engage, thereby increasing their effectiveness in penetrating enemy defenses and successfully reaching their intended objectives.

INS Mormugao's Combat Readiness and Aatmanirbhar Bharat:

The INS Mormugao, named after the historic city of Goa, has emerged as one of India's most formidable warships. With dimensions of 163 meters in length and 17 meters in breadth, and a displacement of 7,400 tonnes, the vessel showcases the country's indigenous shipbuilding capabilities. Its successful engagement of a sea-skimming supersonic target emphasizes the Indian Navy's commitment to self-reliance and the Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative. This achievement signifies the Navy's preparedness for future warfare scenarios.

Sea-Based Ballistic Missile Interceptor Test:

India's recent test of a sea-based ballistic missile interceptor demonstrates its progress in enhancing its missile defense capabilities. Conducted in the Bay of Bengal off the coast of Odisha, the test involved the engagement and neutralization of a hostile ballistic missile threat. By accomplishing this feat, India joins an elite group of nations with sea-based missile defense capabilities. The successful trial not only bolsters India's defense capabilities but also highlights the synergy between the Indian Navy and the Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

Advancing Ballistic Missile Defense Capabilities:

India's focus on bolstering its ballistic missile defense capabilities encompasses intercepting missiles within and beyond the Earth's atmosphere. The recent test involved the endo-atmospheric interceptor missile, specifically designed for targets within a range of less than 100 kilometers. Moreover, the AD-1 long-range interceptor missile, tested in November, has the capability to engage targets in both low exo-atmospheric and endo-atmospheric environments. These advancements solidify India's position as a nation with sophisticated ballistic missile defense systems, capable of countering threats from a range of sources.

Conclusion:

India's recent achievements in missile defense capabilities exemplify its commitment to self-reliance and preparedness in the face of evolving security challenges. The successful engagement by INS Mormugao and the sea-based ballistic missile interceptor test showcase India's growing indigenous defense capabilities. With a focus on enhancing both endo-atmospheric and exo-atmospheric interception capabilities, India has firmly established itself among the select group of nations with advanced ballistic missile defense systems. These milestones further strengthen India's defense posture and contribute to regional security and stability.