Image source: topwar.ru
The Indian Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO, an approximate analogue of Rostec) has published an image showing a Su-30 MKI fighter armed with 4 RudraM-III air-to-surface missiles – up to two on each wing console.
- says the IDRW publication.
The RudraM-III is part of the Rudram family of air-to-surface missiles designed to suppress enemy air defenses and strike ground targets. Unlike the RudraM-I and RudraM-II (anti-radar, with a flight range of 200 and 300 km, respectively), the RudraM-III is being developed by DRDO with a range increased to 550-600 km and a more powerful 200 kg warhead.
Image source: topwar.ru
Equipped with advanced guidance systems, including ANN, GPS and infrared seeker with visualization (IIR) to improve accuracy on the final section of the path, RudraM-III will have high maneuverability due to 18 stabilizers (8 in the middle of the hull and 8 in the tail). Such a design, combined with a two-pulse solid-fuel rocket engine, is expected to provide hypersonic speeds (estimated at Mach 5 or more) and a semi-ballistic trajectory, which, according to the developer, will make it elusive for enemy air defenses.
It will perform a dual function, being both anti-radar and shock, being equipped with a Penetration-Cum-Blast (PCB) warhead to destroy fortified structures and critical infrastructure.
- indicated in the publication.
According to the author, the aircraft in a heavily armed configuration will be able to effectively destroy the enemy's defenses, covered by echelon air defense.
