DRDO showcases critical defence technologies in three flight tests
DEFENCE
14 JUNE 2026
- The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully demonstrated a range of critical defence technologies through three consecutive flight tests, significantly enhancing India’s capabilities against diverse aerial and maritime threats.
- According to the Ministry of Defence, the tests showcased a multi-layered Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) system and the maiden flight test of the Naval Anti-Ship Missile-Medium Range (NASM-MR), marking a major milestone in India’s indigenous defence technology development.
Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) system
- The multi-layered BMD capability was successfully demonstrated with interceptor missiles engaging and destroying their designated targets.
- The systems, developed using advanced technologies, are designed to counter emerging missile threats across a broad spectrum.
- The successful trials have placed India among a select group of countries possessing BMD capabilities capable of engaging threats up to Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles; United States, Russia, China, Israel.
Global Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) systems
- United States BMD systems include the Patriot PAC-3 for theater defense, the THAAD (Terminal High Altitude Area Defense), and the Aegis system.
- Russia’s primary defensive shield revolves around the S-400 and the advanced S-500 surface-to-air missile systems.
- Israel operates one of the world’s most battle-tested multi-tier defense shields. It features the Iron Dome (short-range), David’s Sling (medium-range), and the Arrow system (Arrow 2 and Arrow 3 for long-range and exo-atmospheric interception).
- China continues to rapidly develop and refine its domestic BMD capabilities and anti-satellite technologies.
Naval Anti-Ship Missile-Medium Range (NASM-MR)
- In another key achievement, DRDO successfully carried out the maiden flight test of the Naval Anti-Ship Missile-Medium Range (NASM-MR), demonstrating enhanced anti-ship strike capability at medium ranges.
- The flight tests were witnessed by senior officials of DRDO and the Armed Forces.


