The successful engagement of an underwater target by the indigenously developed Varunastra torpedo marks a significant milestone for both the Indian Navy and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The test, which took place on June 6 off the western seaboard, demonstrated the accurate delivery of ordnance on target in the underwater domain, a crucial capability for the Indian Navy.
The eight-second video released by the Indian Navy shows the Varunastra torpedo hitting a submerged pontoon target in the sea. Upon impact, a powerful blast occurs, obliterating the pontoon and causing shockwaves that force the seawater to rise.
The Indian Navy spokesperson emphasized that this successful engagement highlights the commitment to future-proof combat readiness through indigenous developments. It represents a significant achievement for the Indian Navy and the DRDO in their pursuit of advanced capabilities in the underwater warfare domain.
This recent test was the second sea-level test conducted in a fortnight by the Indian Navy. In the previous test, the Navy successfully launched an advanced ‘Sea Skimming’ missile from the destroyer INS ‘Mormugao,’ which targeted and hit a floating target in the sea. The missile has a range of up to 300 km.
Additionally, India recently carried out a successful training launch of the Agni-1 Medium-Range Ballistic Missile from the APJ Abdul Kalam Island in Odisha. The missile demonstrated a high degree of precision in striking its targets, validating its operational and technical parameters.
The Defence Ministry has stated that the DRDO is actively working on a Technology Transfer Policy to facilitate the transfer of successfully tested products to Indian industries for mass production. This transfer is facilitated through licensing agreements, and so far, the DRDO has signed 670 such agreements, enabling the domestic production of advanced defense technologies.