India Signs ₹2,960 Crore Deal with BDL for Navy’s Medium-Range SAMs
India’s Ministry of Defence has signed a contract with Bharat Dynamics Limited for the supply of Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missiles (MRSAM) for the Indian Navy, at a cost of approximately Rs 2,960 crore ($356.63 million). Officials from the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) signed the contract in the presence of Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh in New Delhi on January 16, 2025. It is already used by the Army, Navy, and Air Force in various configurations.
In December 2020, the DRDO conducted the maiden launch of the MRSAM (Army Version) from the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha.
The Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) is a surface-to-air missile system used by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. It is designed to defend against aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, drones, and other airborne threats. The MRSAM was jointly developed by India’s Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI).
The MRSAM weighs approximately 275 kg. It has a diameter of 0.225 meters and a length of 4.5 meters. The MRSAM for the Indian Navy is a high-performance air defense system with a range of 70 km and speeds over Mach 2 (2,470 KPH or 1,534 MPH), making it highly efficient, with a flight time of 230 seconds. It employs a dual guidance system, utilizing command guidance during the initial phase and active radar homing in the terminal phase for accurate targeting. It is powered by a dual-pulse solid rocket motor which features exceptional agility and is enhanced by thrust vector control. The system includes a 60 kg pre-fragmented warhead and a vertical launch unit for 360-degree coverage and quick response, providing robust protection against diverse aerial threats.
Its indigenous production promotes India’s self-reliance in defense technology initiatives and strengthens India’s national security while creating employment opportunities and driving economic growth.