DRDO SMART Test: The Supersonic Missile-Assisted Release of Torpedo (SMART) system completed a flight test from Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha, according to a May 1 announcement from the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO).
The test was conducted early on Wednesday from the island of APJ Abdul Kalam, off the coast of Odisha.
As per The Hindu, the DRDO conceived and developed SMART, a next-generation missile-based lightweight torpedo delivery system, to improve the Indian Navy’s capabilities to combat submarines beyond the traditional range of lightweight torpedoes.
The ministry clarified that this missile system, based on canisters, has multiple sophisticated subsystems, such as an electromechanical actuator system, a precise inertial navigation system, and a two-stage solid propulsion system.
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Furthermore, SMART carries a sophisticated lightweight torpedo as payload, released using a parachute.
On Wednesday morning, the missile was fired from a ground mobile launcher.
The missile’s ability to travel its whole range was successfully demonstrated during the test.
The statement claimed, “This test has validated several state-of-the-art mechanisms, including symmetric separation, ejection, and velocity control.”
The DRDO and the industrial partners were commended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh for the successful SMART flying test. He declared, “The system’s development will further enhance our Navy’s strength.”
Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Chairman of DRDO and Secretary of Defence R&D, also praised the collaborative efforts of the whole SMART team and encouraged it to keep moving forward on the path of excellence.
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SMART missile
A lightweight torpedo delivery system based on next-generation missiles is called SMART (Supersonic Missile Assisted Release of Torpedo).
The SMART missile system consists of a lightweight torpedo with a 20-kilometer range and a 50 kg high explosive warhead as the payload, as well as a long-range supersonic missile carrier with a maximum speed of 643 km.
The missile has a two-stage solid propulsion system, precision inertial navigation, electromechanical actuators, and a datalink for torpedo terminal homing and mid-course upgrades.
The goal of SMART development is to strengthen India’s defense capabilities independently and to counter the Chinese navy’s growing submarine deployment in the Indian Ocean region.
