The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) introduced a cutting-edge defensive asset to the Indian Navy—the Medium Range-Microwave Obscurant Chaff Rocket (MR-MOCR). This advanced technology, developed by DRDO’s Defence Laboratory in Jodhpur, creates a microwave shield that significantly reduces radar detection, enhancing the stealth capabilities of naval platforms.
Microwave Shielding for Enhanced Stealth
The MR-MOCR is designed to obscure radar signals by deploying specialized fibers, a few microns in diameter, that possess unique microwave obscuration properties. When launched, the rocket disperses these fibers into space, forming a persistent microwave obscurant cloud that effectively shields naval assets from hostile threats equipped with Radio Frequency seekers. This shield is a game-changer in radar deception, significantly lowering the Radar Cross Section (RCS) of targets and making them harder to detect.
Demonstrating Technological Prowess
The development and testing of the MR-MOCR involved rigorous trials. During Phase-I trials, conducted aboard Indian Navy ships, the MR-MOCR successfully created a durable microwave obscurant cloud. In Phase-II, the technology demonstrated an impressive 90% reduction in the radar visibility of aerial targets, earning clearance from the Indian Navy. Following these successful trials, a batch of MR-MOCR units, meeting all qualification standards, has been officially handed over to the Indian Navy.
A Milestone in Defence Technology
The formal handing-over ceremony was held in New Delhi, with Dr. Samir V Kamat, Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, transferring the MR-MOCR to Rear Admiral Brijesh Vashistha, Director General of Naval Armament Inspection. Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh praised the DRDO and the Indian Navy for their achievement, highlighting the MR-MOCR as a significant step towards self-reliance in defence technology.
Towards Self-Reliance in Defence
The MR-MOCR represents a significant advancement in India’s naval defence capabilities, providing a strategic advantage in radar evasion. This technology not only enhances the operational effectiveness of the Indian Navy but also marks a crucial step towards achieving Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) in the defence sector. The success of the MR-MOCR underscores DRDO’s commitment to developing indigenous, state-of-the-art defence solutions.
(With inputs from agencies)
