India’s quest for ballistic missile defence system, initiated post Kargil war, has set new milestone

The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully carried out a test flight of the Phase-II Ballistic Missile Defence System at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipore, Odisha, on July 24. At 4:20 pm IST, a target missile, representing an enemy ballistic missile, was launched from LC-IV Dhamra.

Radars on both land and sea detected the incoming target missile and activated the AD interceptor system. At 4:24 pm, the Phase-II AD Endo-atmospheric missile was launched from LC-III at ITR to intercept the target.

Get Latest Mathrubhumi Updates in English

This defence system features long-range sensors, a fast communication network, the Mission Control Centre (MCC), and advanced interceptor missiles.

Ballistic Missile Defence Shield

India’s Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) Programme aims to create a multi-layered defence system to shield the country from ballistic missile attacks.

This initiative was primarily driven by the missile threat from Pakistan, particularly highlighted during the Kargil War in 1999.

What are Ballistic Missiles?

A ballistic missile or projectile travels along a ‘ballistic trajectory’. This path is the route taken by the projectile (missile) after its propulsion (thrust force) stops, and it is only influenced by gravity and air resistance.

A ballistic trajectory typically takes the shape of an arc or a parabola. This curved path results from the combined effects of the missile’s initial velocity, gravity pulling it downwards, and air resistance.

In simpler terms, a ballistic missile is guided during its initial launch phase (propulsion). After that, its path relies mostly on gravity and needs very little further guidance.

Benefits of Ballistic Missiles

Ballistic missiles have several advantages. First, they can travel very long distances because they move above the atmosphere, encountering less air resistance. They also benefit from gravity and the Earth’s rotation, which helps them cover more ground.

Another benefit is their fuel efficiency. These missiles only need fuel during the initial launch and for any course corrections. This makes them more efficient compared to other types of missiles.

Additionally, ballistic missiles can carry multiple independent targetable re-entry vehicles (MIRVs). Thanks to their fuel efficiency, they can also carry heavier payloads than cruise missiles.

What is Ballistic Missile Defence System?

A Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) system is designed to protect against attacks from ballistic missiles.

Its main purpose is to intercept and destroy incoming missiles before they can cause harm, acting as a defensive shield rather than an offensive weapon.

A ballistic missile can be intercepted during three different phases:

* Terminal Phase: This is when the missile is descending through the atmosphere.

* Mid-Course Interception: The missile is intercepted while in flight, which is the preferred method.

* Boost Phase: Targeting the missile right after launch, which requires highly advanced radar systems.

Understanding Ballistic Missile Defence

A Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) system is a two-tier automated system. It includes an advanced radar system and an early warning system (also known as the sensors system). These components work together to detect and track incoming threats.

Additionally, the system features an integrated command and control center that coordinates the response. The interceptor missile batteries, which are crucial for neutralizing threats, must be agile and mobile.

They are strategically positioned on both land and sea to ensure comprehensive coverage.

What is a Two-Tier Automated System?

A two-tier automated system refers to a defence strategy that has two layers of protection. The first layer involves detecting and tracking potential threats using advanced radars and sensors. The second layer involves responding to these threats by launching interceptor missiles from various strategically located positions.

The two-tier approach enhances the system’s effectiveness in intercepting and neutralizing missiles before they can cause damage.

India’s Ballistic Missile Defence Program

India started developing its Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) system in 1999, following the Kargil conflict. The main goal was to strengthen the nation’s Defence capabilities against potential nuclear threats from Pakistan.

This is particularly important because India adheres to a ‘No First Use’ nuclear policy. The country aims to establish an effective missile defence system similar to an ‘iron dome,’ which includes both low-altitude and high-altitude interceptor missiles.

India aims to set up an effective ballistic missile defence (BMD) system, similar to an ‘iron dome,’ that uses both low-altitude and high-altitude interceptor missiles.

This BMD system is mainly developed by the DRDO with support from various public and private companies such as Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Astra Microwave, and Larsen & Toubro (L&T). The system operates on dual levels and is capable of deploying interceptor missiles from both terrestrial and naval platforms.

Phases of India’s BMD Development

India’s BMD program is being developed by the DRDO in two phases:

* Phase-1: This phase focuses on creating a Defence system capable of intercepting missiles with a range of up to 3,000 km. The radar for this phase can detect targets up to 600 km away.

* Phase-2: In this phase, the goal is to develop intercept missiles that can handle threats up to 5,000 km. The radar range for this phase will be extended to 1,500 km.

Phase-1: India’s Missile Defence Systems

Prithvi Air Defence (PAD) or Pradyumna Ballistic Missile Interceptor, is designed for high-altitude interception. This shield can intercept enemy missiles at altitudes ranging from 80 to 120 km (exo-atmospheric interception), outside the Earth’s atmosphere. It is a 2-stage solid-fuelled missile.

The second type in Phase-1 is the Advanced Air Defence (AAD), also known as the Ashwin Ballistic Missile Interceptor, is designed for endo-atmospheric interception (low-altitude interception), meaning it operates within the Earth’s atmosphere.

This system targets and intercepts missiles at low altitudes between 15- 30 kms. It features a single-stage, solid-fueled missile for effective interception.

Reports from January 2020 indicate that the first phase of the BMD program is now complete. Phase one of the program will protect Delhi and Mumbai from incoming ballistic missiles.

Phase-2: Advanced Interceptors and Expanded Protection

AD-1 and AD-2 Development: Two new anti-ballistic missiles, AD-1 and AD-2, are currently in development to intercept Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missiles (IRBMs). These high-speed missiles will be capable of traveling at hypersonic speeds exceeding Mach 5.

AD-1 endo-atmospheric interceptor and the AD-2 exo-atmospheric interceptor. As development continues, this missile will also undergo testing and deployment from naval platforms.

Phase-2 of the program is believed to focus on deploying interceptor missiles specifically designed to protect Bangalore and Hyderabad from ballistic missile attacks.

The DRDO Floating Test Range is expected to play a key role in developing Phase 2 of the missile defence program. The vessel INS Anvesh (A41) was scheduled to begin sea trials in September 2021.

On April 21, 2023, the DRDO and the Indian Navy successfully conducted the first flight trial of a sea-based interceptor missile, enhancing naval ballistic missile Defence capabilities.

Swordfish Radar in India’s BMD Program

India acquired the Swordfish radar from Israel for both Phase 1 and Phase 2 of its Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) program. The Swordfish is an active electronically scanned array (AESA) long-range tracking radar designed specifically to counter ballistic missile threats.

The author of this article is a Defence, Aerospace & Political Analyst based in Bengaluru.

_{Images are for reference only.Images and contents gathered automatic from google or 3rd party sources.All rights on the images and contents are with their legal original owners.}