Indian Air Force Successfully Testfires "SAMAR" Air Defence Missile System at Exercise Astrashakti

Defense News - In a landmark achievement stemming from its internal design and development endeavors, the Indian Air Force has effectively conducted test firings of its Surface to Air Missile for Assured Retaliation (SAMAR) air defense system.

Undergoing successful firing trials during the AstraShakti-2023 exercise at Air Force Station Suryalanka, the SAMAR air defense missile system represents an in-house innovation utilizing existing Russian-origin air-to-air missile systems. Officials from the Indian Air Force conveyed that the SAMAR system, designed and developed by a unit under the IAFs Maintenance Command, exhibited its prowess during the recent exercise.

The SAMAR air defense system, participating for the first time in the exercise, underwent testing of its surface-to-air weapon systems and operational field trials. The missile system achieved its firing trial objectives in diverse engagement scenarios, demonstrating its capability to engage aerial threats with missiles operating at speeds ranging from 2 to 2.5 Mach.

Characterized by a twin-turret launch platform, the SAMAR system has the ability to launch two missiles in both single and salvo modes, adapting to various threat scenarios. This successful demonstration was witnessed by Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari and Vice Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal AP Singh.

During his visit to the Suryalanka air base, IAF Maintenance Command chief Air Marshal Vbhas Pande commended the crew, including officers and personnel, for their contributions to the in-house development of the SAMAR system.

In alignment with the directives of the Narendra Modi government to promote self-reliance, the Indian Air Force, particularly through the Maintenance Command, has made significant strides in indigenizing various spares and equipment used in fighter jets, transport aircraft, helicopters, and ground-based weapon systems.

Furthermore, collaboration between the base repair depots and HAL is enhancing the serviceability of Su-30 and MiG-29 jets within the force. The SAMAR air defense system, a product of the 7 BRD based in the national capital, stands as a testament to India commitment to technological advancement and self-sufficiency in defense capabilities.