VISAKHAPATNAM: The trials of advanced version of the country's first indigenously made heavyweight anti-submarine torpedo 'Varunastra' will begin by the year-end, Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL) director CD Malleswar told the media here on Wednesday. The NSTL has developed the torpedo with optical guidance technology for which the laboratory works have been completed.
"Arrangements are being made for its underwater trials," Malleswar announced while speaking to media on the occasion of the 47th Lab Raising Day of NSTL.
Malleswar said the advanced variant of Varunastra has not been christened yet. Indian Navy has accepted to procure 73 Varunastras and 23 Mareech Advanced Torpedo Defence Systems, he added.
Revealing various development and advanced technology activities of the NSTL, the director said the lab had developed fire control system and integrated anti-submarine warfare complex among other successful operations.
In sync with the developed countries' advanced warfare, Malleswar said, NSTL was introducing new variants.