India announced it will conduct a live-fire test of its submarine-launched cruise missile (SLCM) in March. The SLCM will have a range of 310 miles (500km) to advance indigenous defense production and projects.
Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), the SLCM was tested in February 2023, reaching a range of 249 miles (402km).
The cruise missile will have two variants: a Land Attack Cruise Missile (LACM) and an Anti-Ship Cruise Missile (ASCM). The two variants would allow the Indian Navy greater flexibility in its ability to strike various targets.
India plans to set up a “rocket force” with cruise missiles and short- and medium-range ballistic missiles. Officials also wish to produce the missile systems domestically, decreasing reliance on foreign shipments.
The Indian Navy places a significant amount of importance on the SLCM and its inclusion in the submarines produced as part of Project 75 India.
