SOURCE: IDRW.ORG
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is poised to enhance its strategic capabilities with the local production of the Crystal Maze 2, also known as ROCKS, a medium-range ballistic missile developed by Israel. This missile, which has been integrated into the IAF’s Su-30MKI, MiG-29UPG, and Jaguar aircraft, represents a significant step forward in India’s defense strategy, particularly in air-to-surface engagements.
The Crystal Maze 2 is engineered for precision strikes, targeting high-value assets critical to enemy operations. With a strike range exceeding 250 kilometers, this missile allows for engagement at distances that keep the launch aircraft safely out of harm’s way. Its design is particularly adept at operating in GPS-denied environments, a crucial feature in contemporary warfare scenarios where adversaries might employ electronic warfare techniques or establish anti-access/area denial (A2AD) zones to thwart incoming threats.
Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), a leading Indian defense manufacturer, is set to take on the production of the Crystal Maze 2 in India. This move aligns with India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative, aimed at promoting self-reliance in defense manufacturing. The local production of such advanced weaponry not only reduces dependency on foreign suppliers but also potentially lowers costs, ensures supply chain security, and could lead to further innovations or adaptations tailored to India’s specific operational needs.
Moreover, the ability to strike in GPS-denied environments addresses a critical vulnerability in modern warfare, where electronic warfare is increasingly used to disrupt satellite navigation systems. This capability ensures that the IAF maintains operational effectiveness even when facing sophisticated countermeasures.
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