SAMAR Shines! Indian Air Force Aces Air Defence Missile Test At Astrashakti 2023

In a noteworthy accomplishment stemming from its internal design and development initiatives, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has successfully conducted test firings of its SAMAR air defence missile system.

The SAMAR (Surface-to-Air Missile for Assured Retaliation) system, conceived using outdated Russian-origin air-to-air missile systems, was subject to firing trials during the Astrashakti-2023 exercise at Air Force Station Suryalanka.

Developed by a unit under the IAF's Maintenance Command, the SAMAR system demonstrated its capabilities by achieving firing trial objectives in various engagement scenarios.

Operating at speeds ranging from 2 to 2.5 Mach, the system features a twin-turret launch platform capable of launching two missiles in single and salvo modes, depending on the threat scenario.

This marked the first participation of the SAMAR air defence missile system in the exercise, showcasing its surface-to-air weapon systems and undergoing operational field trials.

Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari and Vice Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal A P Singh witnessed the missile system's performance during the exercise.

Air Marshal Vibhas Pande, Chief of IAF Maintenance Command, visited the Suryalanka air base to meet with the personnel, including officers and enlisted individuals, who played a crucial role in the in-house development of the SAMAR system.

Aligned with the directives of the Narendra Modi government to enhance self-reliance, the IAF has been proactive in pursuing indigenous capabilities.

The Maintenance Command has not only achieved success in developing the SAMAR air defence system but also in indigenising multiple spares and equipment used in various aircraft and ground-based weapon systems.

Additionally, the repair depots of the force collaborate closely with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to enhance the serviceability of Su-30 and MiG-29 jets, among others.

The SAMAR air defence system, a product of the 7 BRD in the national capital, exemplifies the IAF's commitment to advancing its self-sufficiency in defence capabilities.