India’s naval strength is no longer defined solely by its warships or fleets. The country is now sending a powerful message through its homegrown, high-tech defense systems. In a significant leap for India’s underwater warfare capabilities, the Indian Navy has successfully tested the Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket, known as ISRAR, from its advanced stealth corvette INS Kavaratti.

This isn't just a rocket — it’s a strategic gamechanger that can eliminate enemy submarines lurking deep in the waters, silently posing threats to India's vast maritime borders. Here's a comprehensive look at what ISRAR is, how the trials were conducted, and why this innovation marks a new milestone in India's self-reliant defense journey.

What is ISRAR?

ISRAR stands for Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket — a specially designed indigenous weapon system developed to target and destroy submarines deep beneath the ocean surface. This rocket is launched from Indian Navy ships using an indigenously developed rocket launcher system.

What makes ISRAR unique are its two standout technological features:

• Twin Rocket Motor Configuration – This is a two-stage propulsion system that enhances both range and accuracy. It enables the rocket to travel longer distances with higher precision.

• Electronic Time Fuse – Completely designed and developed in India, this fuse calculates the exact time and depth for the explosion, ensuring that the submarine target is hit with maximum efficiency.

The entire system is fully indigenous. No foreign components have been used, making India fully self-reliant in this critical segment of naval defense technology.

The Successful Trial from INS Kavaratti

The testing of ISRAR took place from June 23 to July 7, 2025, from the anti-submarine warfare corvette INS Kavaratti, which itself is a symbol of the Make in India initiative. Over this period, 17 ISRAR rockets were fired at different ranges and depths.

Each test validated the full operational capability of the system. The rockets successfully reached their targets, exploded at precise times, and demonstrated effectiveness across all key parameters.

The three critical aspects of the trial were:

• Range Performance: ISRAR hit targets over 8 kilometers away with high accuracy.

• Time Fuse Activation: The system ensured precise underwater explosions at predetermined times and depths.

• Warhead Functionality: The warhead component performed with full effectiveness, confirming its combat-readiness.

Behind ISRAR: India's Scientific & Industrial Power

The successful development and testing of ISRAR are a testament to India’s growing defense research ecosystem. Leading institutions played key roles in this project:

• Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), Pune – Designed the system.

• High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL), Pune – Developed the explosive mechanism.

• Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL), Visakhapatnam – Ensured naval compatibility.

On the manufacturing side, both public and private sector players collaborated:

• Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), Hyderabad

• Solar Defense Aerospace, Nagpur

This collaboration reflects the success of India's Government-Science-Industry triangle, which is now producing world-class defense systems entirely within the country.

Why ISRAR Matters

Submarines are considered silent killers in modern warfare, especially in expansive oceans like the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean. Until now, India relied heavily on Russian-origin rocket-guided bombs, which had range and precision limitations.

ISRAR not only replaces those systems but also outperforms them, offering extended range, deeper penetration, and pinpoint accuracy. It addresses the growing threat from stealth enemy submarines and enhances India’s deterrence power in maritime security.

National Recognition

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh hailed ISRAR as a significant step toward Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India). He congratulated the DRDO, Indian Navy, and industry partners, emphasizing that India is no longer just a buyer but a developer of advanced military technologies.

DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat also praised the scientific teams, calling ISRAR a symbol of India’s self-reliance and innovation in defense manufacturing.

The Way Forward

ISRAR represents more than just a rocket — it’s a reflection of India's growing confidence in defense technology, built by Indian brains, tested on Indian platforms, and ready to protect Indian waters.

As India moves forward, systems like ISRAR will form the backbone of a self-sustained, technologically superior military that no longer depends on foreign imports.

When an enemy submarine next dares to breach India's maritime boundaries, it will be met with a high-precision, deep-sea answer from ISRAR — India’s underwater Brahmastra.

Disclaimer:This article is based on publicly available information, official statements, and media reports. It is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content does not contain any classified material or sensitive defense strategies. Views expressed are neutral and do not represent any official position of the Government of India, Indian Navy, DRDO, or any affiliated organizations.