The scientists at Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Missile Complex in Hyderabad are an inspired lot, thanks to the successful test of the 750-km range submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM), K-15.
The missile was tested for its full range from a submerged pontoon, off the Visakhapatnam coast on January 27. Sources in the Missile Complex told Express that K-15 was launched from an underwater vehicle with an approximate depth of 50 metres. What adds more teeth to the missile is the array of Gen-next technologies that are embedded on board, a majority of features till kept under wraps.
“The medium range missile, with a capacity to be launched from multiple platforms, has so far undergone many trials. It is primarily employed against land targets. The missile is incorporated with very-high accuracy navigation systems with completely different and specific schemes, that can steer the vehicle towards the target with single-digit accuracy,” a source said.
The scientists have designed special alignment techniques with the most modern algorithms specific to underwater missions.
“It has a two-stage booster, with one being employed under water and the other above the surface. The underwater dynamics are totally different from the aerodynamic environment. Here the hydro-dynamics come into picture and you have to take into account factors like water pressure, wave speed, its direction and many more,” the official said.
Being guided by an on-board guidance computer system, the K-15 missile travels through the atmosphere all through the mission. The missile will be integrated with India’s first home-grown N-powered submarine INS Arihant, which is warming up for its maiden sea-acceptance trials.
Speaking to Express from Hyderabad, K-15 programme director A K Chakrabarty said his team had a challenging job on hand.