India successfully tested the RudraM-II air-to-surface missile from a Su-30 fighter jet, marking a significant step forward in its defense capabilities. The missile, which used indigenous technologies, met all trial objectives, verifying its propulsion system as well as the control and guidance algorithm. This successful test reinforces the RudraM-II system's function as a military force multiplier, with future advancements aimed at improving India's air superiority tactical capacity.
India marked a critical milestone in its defense capabilities by successfully testing a RudraM-II air-to-surface missile from an Indian Air Force (IAF) Su-30 fighter jet off the coast of Odisha. The defence ministry acknowledged that the missile's flight test met all trial objectives, indicating a significant progress in India's indigenously manufactured solid-propelled air-launched missile system. The RudraM-II missile includes cutting-edge indigenous technologies developed by several DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation) facilities. The successful flight test, which took place around 11:30 hours on May 29, confirmed the missile's propulsion system as well as its control and guidance algorithms. Flight data obtained by range tracking sensors, including those on ships, corroborated the missile's performance.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh thanked the DRDO, the IAF, and the industry on the successful test flight of the RudraM-II. He noted that this successful test has solidified the role of the RudraM-II system as a force multiplier for the armed forces. Secretary of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, Samir V Kamat, also praised the DRDO team for their tireless work and contributions that led to the successful flight test. Rudram, India's first anti-radiation missile (ARM), is an air-to-surface missile developed by the DRDO. Rudram and other ARMs are intended to detect, monitor, and neutralize the enemy's radio frequency sources, such as radar and communication assets. The missile's navigation system consists of a satellite-based Global Positioning System (GPS) and an inertial navigation system. It uses a "passive homing head" for guidance, allowing it to accurately strike targets even if the radiation source turns off during the engagement.
While RudraM-1 is primarily designed for Suppression of Enemy Air Defences (SEAD), advanced versions such as RudraM-2 and RudraM-3 are being developed with ranges of 350 and 550 kilometers, respectively. The integration of Rudram missiles with fighter aircraft was a joint effort by several DRDO facilities, IAF formations, and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. The development of these missiles began approximately eight years ago, with additional testing and inductions planned to improve the IAF's air superiority tactical capacity. The successful test launch of the RudraM-II missile is a big accomplishment for India's defense capability. With continued missile technology breakthroughs, India is positioned to expand its position in the field of air-to-surface missile systems, hence improving national security and defense preparedness.
