The submarine-launched version of BRAHMOS supersonic cruise missile was successfully test-fired at 1410 hrs on 20 March 2013 from a submerged platform in Bay of Bengal off the coast of Visakhapatnam. Creating history, the missile took off vertically from the submerged platform for its full range of 290 kms. Following a pre-defined trajectory, the missile emerged from underwater, took a turn towards the designated target meeting all mission objectives. All the telemetry and tracking stations, including Indian naval ships positioned throughout the flight path, confirmed the pin-point accuracy of the mission. This is the first time that any supersonic cruise missile is launched vertically from a submerged platform.
BRAHMOS vertically installed in a modular launcher in the pressure hull of the submarine will increase the ‘offensive power’ of the vessel without compromising on its ‘defensive power’ as the torpedo tubes can be fully utilised for defence. This new variant of the supersonic cruise missile will add more fire power to the Navy’s underwater weapon delivery capabilities.
Congratulating the scientists of DRDO and Russian specialists along with members from Indian Navy associated with the project for this successful test Defence Minister AK Antony said “It is a wonderful achievement & proud moment for India.” Dr. Sivathanu Pillai, CEO & MD BrahMos said that “BRAHMOS missile is fully ready for fitment in P75 (I) of Indian Navy in vertical launch configuration which will make it one of the most powerful weapon platforms in the World.”
