The Hindu : Andhra Pradesh News : BMDS deployment in three years

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Monday, Jul 09, 2007
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Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh

BMDS deployment in three years

Y. Mallikarjun

AAD Missile for intercepting incoming tactical missile is ready
Simulation trials are on to validate mission software

HYDERABAD: DRDO scientists are all set to test a low-altitude, high-speed interceptor missile (AAD), which will reinforce India’s position in the elite club of nations that have the technology for the Ballistic Missile Defence System (BMDS).

As of now, only the U.S., Russia and Israel have demonstrated their expertise in building sophisticated air defence systems.

This test marks a sequel to the successful trial of another interceptor missile conducted at high altitude (exo-atmosphere PAD) on November 27 last, when it intercepted and destroyed an incoming target missile. The missile interceptor mechanism is a two-layered system of defence — the upper layer (exo-atmosphere) and lower layer (endo-atmosphere). The endo-layer interception is meant to enhance the kill probability of the target missile when the exo-layer interception is missed.

AAD Missile, developed specifically, for intercepting and destroying an incoming tactical missile in endo-atmospheric region (below 30 km altitude) is ready. “Simulation trials are on to validate mission software on ground before the launch. The test will be conducted in two months,” said V.K. Saraswat, Programme Director, Air Defence and Chief Controller (R&D), Missiles and Strategic Systems, DRDO.

Talking to The Hindu, he said: “Once the endo-atmospheric test is completed, we will have covered the complete spectrum of technologies needed for interception of tactical missiles.”

Dr. Saraswat, who received DRDO’s path-breaking research award from Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Saturday, declared that the first phase of the BMDS would be deployed by 2010.

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