SOURCE: AFI
In a significant step towards bolstering India’s defense capabilities, Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), a leading Indian defense public sector undertaking, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Advanced Defense Systems, a subsidiary of RAFAEL Advanced Defense Systems, to co-produce the Ice Breaker stand-off air-to-surface missile in India. This collaboration marks a milestone in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in defense manufacturing and strengthens its strategic partnership with global defense technology leaders.
The Ice Breaker is a cutting-edge, long-range, stand-off, autonomous, precision-guided weapon system designed to deliver exceptional attack performance against a wide array of high-value targets. Developed by RAFAEL, a global leader in defence technologies, the missile is engineered to meet the evolving needs of modern warfare, offering a complete solution for countering diverse threats on land and at sea. Its design is rooted in RAFAEL’s operational experience and incorporates state-of-the-art technologies, making it a formidable addition to India’s defence arsenal.
The Ice Breaker is equipped with an advanced, all-weather electro-optical Infrared (IIR) seeker, which enhances its precision and reliability. The missile leverages operationally proven technologies, including scene-matching algorithms and Automatic Target Recognition (ATR) capabilities. These features enable the system to autonomously identify and engage hostile targets while adhering to strict Rules of Engagement (ROE), ensuring minimal risk to uninvolved civilians.
The missile is designed to operate effectively in GNSS-denied environments, making it resilient to electronic countermeasures and jamming attempts. Its passive seeker ensures late detection by enemy defenses, while its low-level, terrain-following, and sea-skimming flight patterns contribute to its Very Low Observable (VLO) profile, enhancing its survivability in high-threat scenarios.
The Ice Breaker is capable of engaging a variety of high-value, well-defended targets, including those protected by modern Integrated Air Defense Systems (IADS). Its salvo attack capability further enhances its penetration potential against heavily fortified targets. The missile’s effective warhead, combined with selective and precise aimpoints, ensures the desired level of damage—ranging from neutralization to complete destruction—while minimizing collateral damage.
The Ice Breaker’s design allows it to be deployed in diverse operational scenarios, including maritime and land-based missions. Its ability to function in all weather conditions and its compliance with strict engagement protocols make it a versatile and reliable weapon system for modern air forces.
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