image credits: Ministry of Defence, Government of India
On April 3 and 4, 2025, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Army successfully conducted four flight tests of the Army variant of the Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) system in Odisha. These trials, held at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) on Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha.
A Landmark Achievement in Defence Technology
The MRSAM, developed collaboratively by DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries, is a sophisticated weapon system designed to enhance the Indian Army’s air defence capabilities. Comprising a multi-function radar, command post, mobile launcher system, and supporting vehicles, this system is built to tackle aerial threats with precision. The recent flight tests demonstrated its operational prowess, as the missiles successfully intercepted and destroyed high-speed aerial targets, achieving direct hits in all four trials. These engagements tested the system’s versatility across diverse scenarios like long-range, short-range, high-altitude, and low-altitude targets thus proving its reliability under real-world conditions.
Conducted in the presence of senior DRDO officials and Indian Army personnel from the Eastern and Southern Commands, the trials were executed with the weapon system in its deliverable configuration. Data captured by range instruments, including radars and electro-optical tracking systems deployed by the ITR at Chandipur, validated the system’s performance. According to DRDO, these successful tests have paved the way for the operationalisation of the MRSAM in two Army regiments.
Odisha’s Role in the Trials
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Island, formerly known as Wheeler Island, has become synonymous with India’s defence and space milestones. Located approximately 10 kilometres off Odisha’s coast, this facility provides an ideal setting for such critical tests. The island’s Integrated Test Range, managed by DRDO, is equipped with cutting-edge technology to monitor and evaluate missile performance. The recent MRSAM trials highlight Odisha’s indispensable contribution to ensuring the nation’s security through rigorous testing and validation.
Also read about Odisha’s Puri Beach which won the Best Beach Destination Award: click here
Odisha’s Contributions in India’s Space and Defence Sector
Odisha hosts the ITR at Chandipur which has been instrumental in testing a range of missile systems, including the Agni, Prithvi, and Akash series. The successful MRSAM trials add another feather to the cap, showcasing the state’s ability to support high-stakes projects.
The MRSAM flight tests reflect the synergy between DRDO scientists and Army personnel, as well as the operational handling capabilities of the participating commands. For Odisha, this is a matter of pride. The state’s coastal infrastructure, skilled workforce, and strategic location have made it an asset in the nation’s pursuit of self-reliance in defence and space sectors.
