Source: THE HINDU

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Context:

• The DRDO flight tested the Phase II Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) System demonstrating the indigenous capability to defend against ballistic missiles of the 5,000 kilometer class.
• Phase I of the BMD, which can intercept ballistic missiles with a range of 2,000 kilometers, has already been deployed.
• The maiden test of phase II BMD was carried out in November 2022.

The target missile was launched from LC-IV Dharma at 1620 hrs mimicking the adversary ballistic missile, which was detected by weapon system radars developed on land and sea and activated the Air Defense (AD) interceptor system.

About Phase II Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) System

Introduction to BMD Systems

• Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) systems are advanced military capabilities designed to detect, intercept, and destroy incoming ballistic missiles before they reach their targets.
• These systems are crucial for national security, particularly in safeguarding populated areas, military installations, and critical infrastructure from missile attacks.

Overview of Phase II BMD

• India's BMD program is being developed in multiple phases, with Phase II focusing on more advanced capabilities compared to Phase I.
• The primary objective of Phase II is to enhance the interception range and altitude, thus providing a more robust defense against intermediate and intercontinental ballistic missiles.

Key Components and Capabilities of Phase II BMD

• Interceptors: Phase II involves the development of advanced interceptors capable of engaging targets at much higher altitudes and longer ranges.
  • These include both exo-atmospheric (outside the Earth's atmosphere) and endo-atmospheric (within the Earth's atmosphere) interceptors.

• Radars and Sensors: The system incorporates state-of-the-art radars and sensors for long-range detection and tracking of incoming missiles.
  • This includes improvements in radar resolution and tracking accuracy to ensure timely interception.
• Command and Control: An integrated command and control system coordinates the detection, tracking, and interception processes.
  • It ensures real-time data processing and decision-making to engage threats effectively.
• Kill Vehicles: The interceptors are equipped with advanced kill vehicles designed to collide with incoming missiles, neutralizing them through kinetic energy.
  • These kill vehicles have sophisticated guidance and propulsion systems to maneuver towards the target.

Recent Developments and Tests

• India has conducted multiple tests under the Phase II BMD program to validate the system's performance and capabilitie
• These tests have demonstrated successful interception of mock enemy missiles at various altitudes and ranges, showcasing the system's readiness for operational deployment.

Strategic Importance

• The development of Phase II BMD significantly enhances India's defensive capabilities against potential missile threats.
• It acts as a deterrent against adversaries and contributes to the overall strategic stability in the region.
• By providing a multi-tiered defense architecture, Phase II BMD ensures a layered protection against a wide spectrum of missile threats.

Challenges and Future Prospects

• While significant progress has been made, several challenges remain in the further development and deployment of Phase II BMD.
• These include technological advancements, integration of new components, and ensuring seamless coordination among various subsystems.
• Future prospects involve continuous upgrades to keep pace with evolving missile technologies and expanding the coverage of the BMD system.

Conclusion

• The Phase II BMD program represents a crucial step in India's quest for a comprehensive missile defense shield. Through the development of advanced interceptors, radars, and command systems, India is enhancing its capability to protect against ballistic missile threats. Continued investments and technological innovations in this field will further strengthen national security and contribute to regional stability.

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Source:

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PRACTICE QUESTION Consider the following statements regarding India's Phase II Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) System: The Phase II BMD System is designed to intercept ballistic missiles with a range of up to 2,000 kilometers. The interceptors in the Phase II BMD System can engage targets at both exo-atmospheric and endo-atmospheric altitudes. The Phase II BMD System includes advanced radars and sensors for long-range detection and tracking of incoming missiles. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1 only b) 2 and 3 only c) 1 and 3 only d) 1, 2, and 3 Correct answer: b)