The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully completed captive flight tests of the RudraM-III missile on the Indian Air Force’s Sukhoi Su-30MKI. This integration addresses complex aerodynamic and structural challenges of equipping a frontline fighter with such a heavy payload. The RudraM-III, weighing approximately 1.6 tonnes and operating at hypersonic speeds, is the largest in DRDO’s anti-radiation and ground-strike series. During trials, the Su-30MKI flew with two missiles, demonstrating complete structural soundness and stability across various flight conditions, including supersonic speeds. With an operational reach of 550-600 kilometers, the missile is designed for Suppression of Enemy Air Defences (SEAD), capable of neutralizing hostile radar networks and command centers from safe standoff distances. This achievement highlights India’s engineering prowess and commitment to self-reliance in advanced military hardware.
- DRDO successfully completed captive flight tests of the heavy RudraM-III missile on the Su-30MKI.
- The RudraM-III is a hypersonic, long-range missile designed for Suppression of Enemy Air Defences (SEAD).
- Trials confirmed the Su-30MKI’s structural integrity and stability while carrying two 1.6-tonne missiles.
