SOURCE: AFI
India has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) for naval firing exercises scheduled to take place in the Bay of Bengal on December 18 and 19, 2024. The designated area for these operations extends up to 800 km, a range indicative of a potential missile test. Speculation points to either the BrahMos-ER (Extended Range) supersonic cruise missile or the ITCM (Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile) being tested from a naval warship for the first time.
The NOTAM outlines an 800 km range for the designated area, signaling a significant operational test involving advanced naval weaponry. The timeframe and location suggest preparations for validating the performance of critical missile systems under realistic maritime conditions.
The BrahMos-ER variant has an extended strike range of over 800 km, compared to the original 290 km range. The ITCM is a subsonic cruise missile powered by an indigenous Manik turbofan engine, designed to replace imported engines and bolster India’s missile self-reliance.
If conducted, this would mark the first-ever test of ITCM from a naval platform, showcasing its versatility for land and sea-based operations. The ITCM’s potential range and precision could offer the Navy a cost-effective alternative to imported subsonic missiles, enhancing India’s maritime strike capabilities.
Both the BrahMos-ER and ITCM have the potential to significantly expand the Indian Navy’s reach, enabling strikes on enemy assets at considerable distances. This is crucial for maintaining dominance in the strategically vital Indian Ocean Region (IOR).