VL-SRSAM is based onAstra Mark 1air-to-air missile with fourshort-spanlong-chordcruciform wings that provideaerodynamic stability. It also includes additionaljet vane driven thrust vector control to enable quick reaction time on vertical launch and smokeless exhaust.[10] VL-SRSAM conceived for area andpoint-defence role to save naval platforms. EachVertical Launch System (VLS) can hold forty missiles in a twin quad-pack canister configuration carrying eight missiles each forhot launch that can be installed in an arrangement of multiple launch systems based on availability of space on the ship. The missile is for neutralizing various aerial threats at medium and close ranges, includingfighter aircraft andsea skimminganti-ship missiles.[11] With its 360° interception capability, as an integrated missile and weapon control system (WCS), it can identify and neutralize threats coming from all directions. Even though a short-range air defense missile was the original goal, the VL-SRSAM is a medium-range air defense system. Its attack range of 40 km has been increased to 80 km. The missile is said to be fitted in destroyers, frigates, corvettes and aircraft carriers.[12][13][14]
In 2024, DRDO developed anIAF-specific 8×2 truck-mounted variant. It has been developed for defending frontline airbases in conjunction with theAkash system.[18][19]
22 February 2021: Maiden test firing of VL-SRSAM. DRDO successfully test fired twoVL-SRSAM atIntegrated Test Range (ITR) inChandipur, off the coast ofOdisha. The launch tested the efficacy of vertical launch system and missile's maximum and minimum range. Both the missile successfully intercepted their target with pin point accuracy.[20]
7 December 2021:VL-SRSAM was successfully tested by DRDO from Integrated Test Range, Chandipur. The launch was conducted from a vertical launcher against an electronic target at a very low altitude. The launch was conducted to validate integrated operation of all weapon system components including the vertical launcher unit with controller, canisterised flight vehicle, weapon control system etc.[21]
24 June 2022: DRDO announced that India has successfully test-fired the VL-SRSAM from an Indian Naval Ship, off the coast of Chandipur. The launch of the system was conducted against a high-speed aerial target mimicking aircraft, which was successfully engaged.[22]
23 August 2022: DRDO and Indian Navy successfully flight tested VL-SRSAM from the ITR, Chandipur off the coast of Odisha on. The flight test was carried out from an Indian Naval Ship against a high-speed unmanned aerial target for demonstration of vertical launch capability. The missiles, equipped with indigenous Radio Frequency (RF) seeker, intercepted the target with high accuracy.[23]
2023: DRDO test fired VL-SRSAM from Integrated Test Range, Chandipur on an unknown date as per a press release.[24]
12 September 2024: DRDO and the Indian Navy successfully carried out the VL-SRSAM user associate trial from ITR, Chandipur. The test was conducted against a low-altitude, high-speed aerial target from a land-based vertical launcher. The target was successfully tracked and engaged. The purpose of this test was to verify several improved components, including Seeker and Proximity Fuse.[25][14]
13 September 2024: The Indian Navy and DRDO conducted a successful follow-up VL-SRSAM user associate trial against a high-speed sea-skimming aerial target.[26][27][28]
26 March 2025: DRDO and the Indian Navy successfully tested VLSRSAM against a high-speed aerial target at low altitude and very close range from a land-based vertical launcher at ITR, Chandipur. The test demonstrated near-boundary-low altitude capability. The missile proved its agility, dependability, and pinpoint precision by destroying the target entirely and accomplishing higher turn rate needed for target engagement at very close range. All of the system components were deployed in combat configuration mode. The missile has functioned as expected thanks to its indigenous RF seeker, multi-function radar, and weapon control system. Several range instruments at ITR recorded flight data, which was used to validate the performance.[29]
India
