Laser-based weapon systems

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is actively engaged in the development of various advanced technologies as part of India’s Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) Programme. The primary objective of this programme is to develop systems to protect the country against incoming ballistic missile threats, whether they are short-range, medium-range, or intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).

The BMD Programme aims to create a multi-layered missile defence system to intercept and destroy enemy missiles at various stages of their trajectory. To achieve this goal, DRDO is working on a range of technologies, including laser-based weapon systems.

Additional Technology Explained:

1. Laser-based Weapon Systems:

   • As part of the Ballistic Missile Defence Programme, DRDO is developing advanced laser-based weapon systems. These systems are designed to intercept and destroy enemy missiles shortly after launch, during their initial trajectory.

   • The laser-based technology is considered a potential method for intercepting missiles because it can offer rapid response capabilities compared to traditional kinetic interceptors. This technology is in the research and development phase, focusing on enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of laser systems for defensive purposes.

   • These laser systems are intended to work in conjunction with other interception technologies, such as kinetic interceptors and radar-based tracking. This combination ensures a comprehensive defence strategy, providing multi-layer protection against various missile threats.

2. Why It's Important:

   • The development of laser-based weapon systems is crucial for maintaining India's strategic and military edge. With advancements in missile technology globally, having such defensive measures ensures that India can counter any potential threats swiftly and effectively.
   • Laser-based systems represent a significant step forward in creating non-physical interception alternatives. This can help minimize potential collateral damage and offer a new way of handling high-speed missile threats.

3. Other Options Explanation:

A. Radar systems: Radar technology is fundamental to the Ballistic Missile Defence Programme. DRDO has developed radar systems to track and detect incoming missiles, providing real-time data for interception. It is the backbone of India’s early warning systems.

B. Satellite communication systems: While satellite communication is vital for various military operations and surveillance, it is not specifically part of the direct BMD Programme focused on missile interception.

D. Submarine technology: Although India has a robust submarine fleet and related technologies, it is primarily managed under separate programmes focused on naval warfare and undersea capabilities, not directly linked to the Ballistic Missile Defence Programme.

Hence, Option C Is Correct.

Nirbhay Missile

The Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP) was an ambitious project launched by the Indian government in the early 1980s, with the goal of developing a range of indigenous missile systems for defense. The program, managed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), resulted in the development of several key strategic and tactical missiles. Let's go through each option to understand why Nirbhay Missile was not part of IGMDP.

Missiles Developed Under IGMDP:

1. Agni Missile:

   • Type: Intermediate-range surface-to-surface ballistic missile.
   • Role: Part of India's strategic deterrence force.
   • Details: Developed under the IGMDP, the Agni missile is one of the most significant outcomes of the program. It has multiple variants, and its development marked a significant leap in India's missile capabilities.

2. Prithvi Missile:

   • Type: Short-range surface-to-surface ballistic missile.
   • Role: Tactical battlefield missile, used for quick, targeted strikes.
   • Details: The Prithvi missile was one of the first missiles developed under the IGMDP. It was designed as a short-range missile with versions for both the Army and Air Force, capable of carrying nuclear and conventional warheads.

3. Trishul Missile:

   • Type: Surface-to-air missile.
   • Role: Short-range missile designed to intercept aircraft, drones, and incoming missiles.
   • Details: The Trishul missile was developed as part of IGMDP to provide air defense capabilities, especially for India's naval and army forces.

Missile Not Part of IGMDP:

4. Nirbhay Missile:
   • Type: Long-range subsonic cruise missile.
   • Role: Air-launched cruise missile, capable of carrying nuclear and conventional warheads.
   • Details: The Nirbhay missile is a long-range cruise missile, developed by DRDO after the IGMDP concluded in 2007. It was not part of the original IGMDP. The missile is designed to be launched from both air and ground platforms, and it can hit targets at a range of up to 1,000 km. It is an important part of India’s strategic capabilities but was developed after the conclusion of the IGMDP.

Why Nirbhay Was Not Part of IGMDP:

• The Nirbhay missile is a cruise missile, whereas the missiles developed under the IGMDP, such as Agni, Prithvi, and Trishul, were primarily ballistic missiles (except for Akash, which is a surface-to-air missile).
• The IGMDP focused on ballistic and surface-to-air missile systems, with no mention of developing cruise missiles like Nirbhay.
• Nirbhay's development began after the conclusion of IGMDP, and it was part of subsequent missile development programs undertaken by DRDO.

Conclusion:

The Nirbhay missile is not part of the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP). It was developed after the IGMDP had concluded, with a focus on long-range cruise missile technology, which was not part of the original scope of the IGMDP. The IGMDP primarily focused on surface-to-surface ballistic missiles like Agni, Prithvi, and Trishul.

Hence, Option C Is Correct.

Only Statement 1

• Statement 1 is correct. The Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP) led to the successful development of a series of important missile systems for India, including the Agni (intermediate-range ballistic missile), Prithvi (short-range ballistic missile), Akash (surface-to-air missile), Trishul (short-range air defense missile), and Nag (anti-tank guided missile). These missile systems formed the backbone of India's defense strategy and contributed significantly to its military deterrence capabilities.

• Statement 2 is incorrect. Although Dr. Abdul Kalam was one of the key architects and a prominent figure in the IGMDP, he did not become the Chief of DRDO after the completion of IGMDP. Instead, Dr. Kalam was appointed as the President of India in 2002, after his extensive contributions to India's missile and space programs. The position of Chief of DRDO was held by other individuals during and after the IGMDP's completion.

Conclusion:

Thus, only Statement 1 is correct, making a) Only Statement 1 the correct answer.

Hence, Option A Is Correct.