Tests of the Long Range Surface-to-Air Missile (LR SAM) co-developed with Israel have been successful, the Indian Navy announced on Wednesday.With the successful testing of this missile system, the Indian Navy has become part of a select group of navies that have this niche capability. "It gives a quantum jump to Navy's air defence capabilities," a Navy official said.The missile was test-fired from INS Kolkata along the western seaboard, and the missile successfully intercepted an Aerial Target at extended ranges.This was the maiden firing of the LR SAM, also known as Barak 8, from an Indian ship.
Apart from the missile, the system includes a Multi Functional Surveillance and Threat Alert Radar (MF STAR) for detection, tracking and guidance of the missile.
The firing trial of the LR SAM has been jointly carried out by the Indian Navy, DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries.The LR SAM has been manufactured by Bharat Dynamics Limited, India.These Surface to Air Missiles are fitted onboard the Kolkata-class destroyers and would also be fitted on all future major warships of the Indian Navy."This missile along with the MF STAR would provide these ships the capability to neutralize aerial threats at extended ranges," a statement from the Navy said."With the successful proving of these systems, Indian Navy has become part of a select group of Navies that have this niche capability, which would provide a fillip to our maritime operations," the statement added.