India to Test New SAMAR 2 Air Defence System with 30km Range by December

India is on the verge of a significant leap in its air defense capabilities as it prepares to test its latest innovation, the SAMAR 2 air defense system. Set to be tested by December, this system, developed in collaboration with two industry partners, is designed to secure India’s airspace by countering a wide range of aerial threats, including fighter jets, helicopters, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

The SAMAR 2 is an upgraded version of its predecessor, SAMAR 1, which is already in service with the Indian Air Force (IAF). While SAMAR 1 utilizes the R-73E missile with a range of 8 km, SAMAR 2 is equipped with the more advanced R-27 missile, offering an extended range of nearly 30 km. What makes this system particularly noteworthy is its innovative use of Russian-origin air-to-air missiles, which have surpassed their shelf life for aerial deployment. These missiles, once deemed unsafe for launching from aircraft, are being repurposed for a surface-to-air role, presenting a unique challenge in their deployment.

The Technological Leap: Repurposing Air-to-Air Missiles

The development of SAMAR 2 is a testament to India’s ability to adapt and innovate within its defense sector. The R-27 missiles, originally designed for air-to-air combat, are being re-engineered to serve as surface-to-air missiles. This transition is not without its challenges. According to an IAF official, “What is challenging here is that air-to-air missiles, which are past their shelf life and thus unsafe for aerial launch, are being used in a surface-to-air role.”

This approach was first implemented with the SAMAR 1 system, which repurposed the R-73E missile. The success of this adaptation has paved the way for the more ambitious SAMAR 2, which promises to significantly enhance India’s air defense capabilities with its extended range and improved targeting accuracy.

Showcasing India’s Defense Progress

The SAMAR 1 system was prominently showcased at the International Defence Aviation Exposition, held during the Tarang Shakti 2024 exercise, the largest multilateral air combat drill ever hosted by India. The event highlighted India’s growing defense capabilities and its commitment to securing its airspace. The introduction of SAMAR 2 will further bolster this image, showcasing India’s ability to innovate and adapt to emerging threats.

Expanding India’s Air Defence Arsenal

The development of SAMAR 2 is part of a broader strategy to enhance India’s air defense systems. In parallel, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is working on Project Kusha, an indigenous long-range surface-to-air missile system expected to be operational within the next four to five years. This system is designed to cover a maximum range of 350 km, offering comprehensive protection against long-range threats.

Additionally, DRDO has developed the Indigenous Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS), a man-portable system that can neutralize low-altitude aerial threats at short ranges. These developments are part of India’s ongoing efforts to modernize and expand its air defense capabilities, ensuring that the country is well-prepared to counter any aerial threat.

India’s Existing Air Defence Systems

India’s current air defense arsenal is already formidable, featuring advanced systems such as the S-400 air defence missile system and medium-range surface-to-air missile (MRSAM) systems, developed in collaboration with Israel. The IAF also operates other air defense weapons, including the Israeli SpyDer, Soviet-origin systems like Pechora, OSA-AK, Tunguska, Strela, and Shilka, as well as Zu-23-2B anti-aircraft guns and upgraded L-70 anti-aircraft guns from Bofors AB. The Igla MANPADS (man-portable air defense system) also adds to this extensive defense network.

The upcoming test of the SAMAR 2 system marks another step forward in India’s quest to build a robust, multi-layered air defense network. As the country continues to innovate and expand its defense capabilities, the SAMAR 2 is set to play a crucial role in safeguarding India’s skies.