Defence📖 3 min read

Rudram-II Missile: India's New Anti-Radiation Weapon Tested

India successfully tested its new generation anti-radiation missile, Rudram-II, designed to destroy enemy radar and communication systems.

Source: GNews DRDO Weapons
Summary of News

India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted the maiden flight test of the Rudram-II missile. This new generation anti-radiation missile was tested from a Su-30 MKI aircraft off the coast of Odisha. The Rudram-II is an air-to-surface missile specifically designed to detect, track, and neutralize enemy radar and communication assets. It has a reported range of approximately 300 kilometers. The missile uses advanced guidance systems, including an Inertial Navigation System (INS) with GPS and a Passive Homing Head (PHH) for terminal guidance. This test marks a significant step in enhancing India's aerial warfare capabilities and electronic warfare dominance. The Rudram-II missile will provide the Indian Air Force with a crucial advantage in suppressing enemy air defences during conflicts.

Why It Matters

This development is important for competitive exams under the Science & Technology and Defence sections (UPSC GS Paper III, SSC General Awareness). Aspirants should understand India's indigenous defence capabilities, missile technology, and the role of DRDO. The Rudram-II missile signifies advancements in electronic warfare and anti-radiation missile technology, which are key topics for defence-related questions.

Key Points for Exam
  • Rudram-II is an air-to-surface anti-radiation missile.
  • It was flight-tested by DRDO from a Su-30 MKI aircraft.
  • The missile has a reported range of approximately 300 kilometers.
  • Its primary purpose is to neutralize enemy radar and communication systems.
  • Rudram-II uses Inertial Navigation System (INS) with GPS and a Passive Homing Head (PHH).
  • The test was conducted off the coast of Odisha.
Important Keywords Explained
Rudram-IIconcept

Rudram-II is an indigenously developed New Generation Anti-Radiation Missile (NGARM) by DRDO. It is designed to be launched from fighter aircraft to target and destroy enemy radar and communication systems, thereby suppressing enemy air defences. It is an air-to-surface missile.

DRDOorganization

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is the premier agency under the Department of Defence Research and Development in the Ministry of Defence of the Government of India. Founded in 1958, its headquarters are in New Delhi. DRDO is responsible for the development of defence technologies and systems for the Indian military.

Anti-Radiation Missileconcept

An anti-radiation missile (ARM) is a missile designed to home in on electronic transmissions from enemy radar systems. These missiles are used to destroy radar installations, effectively blinding the enemy and creating a safe corridor for attacking aircraft. They are crucial for Suppression of Enemy Air Defences (SEAD) missions.

Additional Facts & Context
1The first Rudram-I missile was successfully tested in October 2020.
2The Su-30 MKI is a twin-engine, two-seat multirole fighter aircraft developed by Sukhoi and built under licence by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
3India is among a few countries with indigenous anti-radiation missile capabilities.
4The Rudram series missiles are part of India's efforts to achieve self-reliance in defence technology.
Examiner's Tip

Exams often ask about India's indigenous missile programs, the role of DRDO, and specific missile types like anti-radiation missiles. Focus on the missile's purpose, range, and the organization behind its development.

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Memory Trick

Remember 'RUDRAM' as 'Radar Undermining Defence & Radiation Annihilation Missile' to recall its function.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main purpose of India's Rudram-II missile?

The main purpose of India's Rudram-II missile is to detect, track, and neutralize enemy radar and communication systems. It is an anti-radiation missile designed to suppress enemy air defences, allowing friendly aircraft to operate more safely in hostile airspace.

Which organization developed the Rudram-II missile?

The Rudram-II missile was developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). DRDO is India's primary agency responsible for military research and development, contributing significantly to the nation's defence capabilities.

What type of aircraft can launch the Rudram-II missile?

The Rudram-II missile is designed to be launched from fighter aircraft. During its maiden flight test, it was launched from a Su-30 MKI aircraft, which is a prominent multirole fighter in the Indian Air Force's fleet.

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