Article Posted on : - Jun 09, 2014

A file photo.

NEW DELHI (BNS): Indian Navy on 9th June 2014 successfully conducted the flight-test of BRAHMOS supersonic cruise missile from the indigenously-built INS Kolkata, the lead ship of the Project 15A (15 Alpha) Class destroyers, from the Arabian Sea.

The launch met all mission requirements.

This 7000 tonne lethal warship has been indigenously-built, for the first time in India, by Mazagon Dock Limited (MDL), Mumbai and has the advanced capability of carrying 16 BRAHMOS supersonic cruise missiles in configuration- a first time in World.

Today's test firing proved the installation of technologically advanced Fire Control System (FCS), Universal Vertical Launch Module (UVLM) and its interfaces with the ship's systems.

The UVLM has been designed and developed by BrahMos Aerospace. The launcher is designed to be fitted under the warship's deck, thereby protecting it from atmospheric conditions and imparting stealth to the weapon system. It also allows the missile to be fired in any direction.

The BRAHMOS missile system enables the ship to engage shore based and naval surface targets at long ranges, making it a lethal platform for strike against enemy targets.

The Project 15A, being constructed for the Indian Navy, comprises of three warships - Kolkata, Kochi and Chennai.

The indigenously designed warship will have state-of-the-art weapons and sensors, stealth features, an advanced action information system, a comprehensive auxiliary control system, world class modular living spaces, sophisticated power distribution system and a host of other advanced features.

The missile's successful launch will give a boost to the ongoing programme of future installations of BRAHMOS system in the Indian Navy.