Navy inducts anti-sub torpedo Varunastra
BY MPOST BUREAU1 July 2016 4:23 AM IST
MPOST BUREAU1 July 2016 4:23 AM IST
Developed by the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL), a premier laboratory of DRDO, the electric torpedo was on Wednesday formally handed over to Indian Navy and the induction is set to be a “game-changer” boost for it.
Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar said the programme is not only a boost to country’s indigenous capability but also an opportunity for export to other countries.
Defence sources said sale of Varunastra, weighing around 1.25 tonnes that carries about 250 kg of explosives at a speed of around 40 nautical miles an hour, was also one of the issues that came up for discussion during Parrikar’s recent visit to Vietnam.
Having almost 95 per cent indigenous content, Varunastra, costing about Rs 10-12 crore per unit, is capable of targeting quiet and stealthy submarines, both in deep and littoral waters in intense counter-measure environment.
“Successful induction of Varunastra into our navy will be a game-changer in favour of the warships in the sub-surface warfare. This landmark has put navy in elite club of navies across the globe that can boast of self-reliance in under water sensors and under water weapons,” Navy chief Admiral Sunil Lanba said.
Next Story