Testing Success: The Indian Navy successfully test-fired the Varunastra, an indigenously built and developed heavy weight torpedo (HWT) carrying a live warhead.
Varunastra: Specifications
- Varunastra is a ship-launched anti-submarine torpedo with low drift navigational systems, acoustic homing, improved acoustic countermeasures, autonomous guidance algorithms, an insensitive munitions warhead, and a GPS-based practise torpedo recovery aid.
- NSTL designed and developed: Varunastra was planned and constructed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL) at Vizag.
- Manufacturing by BDL: Bharat Dynamics Ltd (BDL) is in charge of Varunastra’s production.
Capabilities and technical specifications
- Varunastra can go at a maximum speed of 40 knots and a maximum operational depth of 600 metres. It is capable of long-distance and multi-maneuvering.
- Acoustic homing and tracking: The torpedo has a wide look angle and acoustic homing, allowing it to follow silent targets successfully.
- Varunastra incorporates autonomous advanced guidance algorithms as well as drift navigational technologies, allowing for precision targeting and long-endurance operations.
The Importance of the Test Fire
- Anti-submarine torpedo: Varunastra is planned to replace previous torpedoes capable of shooting HWT as the principal anti-submarine torpedo for all naval warships.
- Anti-submarine warfare has been improved. Varunastra’s selection as the primary anti-submarine torpedo increases the Indian Navy’s ability to confront underwater threats.
- Self-sufficiency and indigenous development Varunastra’s successful development and deployment demonstrate India’s progress in indigenous defence technologies, reducing reliance on imports.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/indigenous-heavy-weight-torpedo-hits-bulls-eye-in-live-test-by-indian-navy/article66939145.ece#:~:text=Varunastra%20is%20a%20ship%2Dlaunched,according%20to%20the%20Defence%20Ministry.