RUDRAM II - DEFENCE AND
SECURITY
News: RudraM-II air-to-surface
missile successfully flight-tested by DRDO from Su-30 MK-I off the Odisha coast
What's in the news?
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Recently, the Defence Research & Development
Organisation (DRDO) successfully
flight-tested the RudraM-II air-to-surface missile from Su-30 MK-I platform of
the Indian Air Force (IAF) off the
Odisha coast.
Key takeaways:
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The flight-test met all the trial objectives,
validating the propulsion system and control & guidance algorithm.
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The successful test has consolidated the role of
the RudraM-II system as a force multiplier to the Armed Forces.
RudraM II Missile:
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RudraM-II is an indigenously-developed solid-propelled air-launched missile system.
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It is meant for Air-to-Surface role to neutralize many types of enemy assets.
Features:
1. Navigation System:
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The missile uses a navigation mechanism consisting
of a satellite-based Global Positioning System (GPS) and an inertial navigation system.
2. Passive Homing Head:
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It employs a “passive homing head” for guidance,
enabling it to accurately strike targets
even if the radiation source switches off during the engagement.
3. Mandate:
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To detect, track, and neutralize the enemy’s radio
frequency sources, including radar, communication assets, and other radio
frequency sources.
Future Developments and
Advanced Versions:
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RudraM-1 - It primarily aims at Suppression of Enemy Air
Defenses (SEAD).
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RudraM-2 and RudraM-3 - These are under development
with ranges of 350 and 550 km, respectively.
Significance:
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The development of these missiles began around
eight years ago, with plans for future tests and inductions to enhance the
IAF’s air superiority tactical capability.