CONTENTS

1. DRDO Tests Long-Range Supersonic Missile Assisted Torpedo (SMART)

DRDO Tests Long-Range Supersonic Missile Assisted Torpedo (SMART)

Context:

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has achieved a significant milestone with the successful testing of the long-range Supersonic Missile Assisted Torpedo (SMART). This development is geared towards enhancing the Navy’s anti-submarine warfare capabilities.

Relevance:

GS III: Science and Technology

Dimensions of the Article:

1. Supersonic Missile Assisted Torpedoes (SMART) system

Supersonic Missile Assisted Torpedoes (SMART) system

The Supersonic Missile Assisted Torpedoes (SMART) system is a significant advancement in underwater warfare technology. Here’s an overview:

Background: Torpedoes

• Torpedoes are self-propelled weapons designed to travel underwater and hit a target. However, they are limited by their range.

About SMART:

• SMART involves the modification of a supersonic missile system to launch torpedoes. This enables the torpedo to achieve a much longer range than it could on its own.
• For example, a torpedo with a range of only a few kilometers can be launched to distances of up to 1000 km using the SMART system.

Institutions Involved:

• Several DRDO laboratories, including the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE), and Naval Science and Technology Laboratory (NSTL) have developed the necessary technologies for SMART.

Features:

• The SMART system can be launched from both coasts and warships, providing flexibility in deployment.
• It comprises a canister-based missile system with advanced subsystems such as two-stage solid propulsion and precision inertial navigation.
• Canisters are filled with inert gases to protect the missile during storage and transportation.
• The system carries an advanced lightweight torpedo missile as a payload, equipped with a parachute-based release mechanism.

Significance:

• SMART significantly extends the range of lightweight torpedoes, allowing them to target submarines hundreds of kilometers away, beyond the conventional range.
• It provides a rapid response capability in detecting and neutralizing enemy submarines, particularly in situations where other assets may not be readily available.