Successful Test of Phase-II BMD System
Context:
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully flight-tested the Phase-II Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) system, capable of defending against ballistic missiles with a range of up to 5,000 km.
Relevance:
GS-03 (Science and technology)
Key highlights:
- Deployment of Phase-I BMD System: Phase-I of the BMD system, which can intercept ballistic missiles with a range of 2,000 km, has already been deployed.
- Maiden Test of Phase-II BMD: The first test of the Phase-II BMD system was conducted in November 2022.
- Simulated Adversary Missile Launch: The test involved launching a target missile from LC-IV Dhamra, simulating an adversary ballistic missile at 1620 hours.
- Activation of Air Defence Interceptor System: The target missile was detected by weapon system radars deployed on land and sea, which activated the Air Defence interceptor system for the test.
Origin of India’s Ballistic Missile Defence Systems
- India initiated its Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) system in 2000 in response to missile threats from China and Pakistan.
- The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) was tasked with developing a multi-tier network to counter missiles with ranges of up to 2,000 km (Phase 1) and 5,000 km (Phase 2).
Components of India’s BMD Network
- Detection and Tracking: Utilizes long-range surveillance radars like Swordfish and multi-object tracking radars.
- Command and Control Centres: Mission control centres analyze real-time data, launch interceptors, and coordinate responses.
- Interceptor Launchers: Containers store and launch interceptor missiles based on trajectory predictions.
- Communications Network: Ensures reliable connectivity between sensors, interceptors, and control centres.
India’s Two-Tier Ballistic Missile Defence System
- High Altitude PAD Interceptors: Designed for exo-atmospheric interception, including the Pradyumna Missile and Prithvi Defence Vehicle.
- Lower Altitude AAD Interceptors: AAD Ashwin Interceptors engage enemy missiles endo-atmospherically at altitudes of 15 to 30 km.
Key Missile Technologies Demonstrated
- Advanced Interceptor Missiles: High-speed missiles like the PAD can intercept hostile missiles at high altitudes.
- Phased Array Radars: Advanced radars like Swordfish provide detailed trajectory data.
- Command and Control Systems: Integrated Air Command & Control System (IACCS) coordinates detection and response.
- Sea-based Defence: Ship-based systems enable interception from naval vessels.
- Future Developments: Focus on hypersonic glide vehicles and advanced radar technology.
Significance of the Ballistic Missile Defence Programme
- Nuclear Arsenal: Reduces risks to nuclear assets, fortifying deterrence.
- National Security: Provides a robust shield against missile attacks, enhancing security.
- Regional Threats: Counters missile threats from adversarial nations.
- Technological Capabilities: Stimulates the indigenous defence industry and promotes self-reliance.
- International Cooperation: Enhances credibility and leads to collaboration with countries like the USA.
Challenges Associated with the BMD Programme
- Integrating specialised technologies is challenging.
- Current range limitations affect defence coverage.
- Operational challenges in providing 360-degree defence.
- Balancing resource allocation between offensive and defensive capabilities.
- Continuous upgrades required to counter evolving threats.
- Reliance on technology transfer and controlled items affects progress.
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