Important for:

UPSC, Haryana HCS, Punjab PCS
Prelims: DRDO, NASM-SR, anti-ship missiles, defence technology
Mains: GS Paper 3 — Defence Technology, Indigenisation, Internal Security

Why in News?

India successfully tested a helicopter-launched naval anti-ship missile (NASM-SR) off the Odisha coast, showcasing advanced targeting capabilities and strengthening naval warfare systems.

What is NASM-SR?

➤ NASM-SR = Naval Anti-Ship Missile (Short Range)

✔ Designed for:

• Helicopter-based launch
• Targeting enemy ships

✔ Developed by:
→ DRDO + Indian Navy

Key Features

1. Helicopter Launch Capability

→ Can be fired from naval helicopters
→ Allows flexible deployment

2. “Man-in-Loop” Technology

→ Operator can guide missile during flight
→ Improves accuracy and reduces collateral damage

3. “Waterline Hit” Feature

→ Targets ship near water surface
→ Causes maximum structural damage

4. Lightweight & Advanced Design

→ Around 380 kg
→ Easier to deploy than older systems

5. Real-Time Data Link

→ Communication between missile and operator

How the Missile Works

Step 1: Launch

Missile launched from helicopter

Step 2: Target Tracking

→ Seeker identifies and locks target

Step 3: Mid-Course Guidance

→ Operator can adjust path

Step 4: Final Strike

→ Hits target at waterline

Why is This Important?

1. Naval Strength

Enhances India’s maritime capability

2. Precision Warfare

Reduces civilian damage

3. Indigenous Development

Boosts Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence

4. Strategic Advantage

Effective in modern naval combat

➤ Concerns / Limitations

• Short range compared to some global systems
• Still under development for large-scale deployment

Global Context

Modern navies (US, Europe, Japan) use:
→ Advanced guided missiles with similar features

India-Specific Impact

• Reduces import dependency
• Strengthens Indian Navy
• Boosts defence ecosystem

Key Insight for UPSC

➤ Important theme:

✔ Defence + Technology + Indigenisation

Prepartion For Aspirants

➤ If you are preparing through
UPSC coaching Chandigarh or IAS coaching Chandigarh,

this topic is extremely important for:

✔ GS Paper 3 defence questions
✔ Prelims factual questions
✔ Interview discussion

PRELIMS PRACTICE QUESTIONS

Q1. NASM-SR is related to:
A. Agriculture
B. Defence
C. Space
D. Banking
⇢ Answer: B

Q2. NASM-SR is launched from:
A. Tank
B. Aircraft
C. Helicopter
D. Satellite
⇢ Answer: C

Q3. DRDO is related to:
A. Banking
B. Defence research
C. Education
D. Trade
⇢ Answer: B

Q4. “Waterline hit” means:
A. Air attack
B. Surface hit
C. Ship-level targeting
D. Satellite hit
⇢ Answer: C

Q5. “Man-in-loop” refers to:
A. Automatic system
B. Human control in missile
C. AI system
D. Radar system
⇢ Answer: B

CBL Mains Practice Question

“Indigenous defence technologies play a crucial role in strengthening India’s strategic autonomy.”
Discuss with reference to recent missile developments.

FAQs

1. What is NASM-SR?
A short-range anti-ship missile launched from helicopters.

2. What is man-in-loop?
Human control during missile flight.

3. What is waterline hit?
Targeting ship near water level for maximum damage.

4. Who developed it?
DRDO and Indian Navy.

5. Which GS paper covers it?
GS Paper 3.