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{{Short description|Indian subsonic cruise missile in limited service and further development}}
subsonic-missile-next-month/article4344332.ece India to launch sub-sonic missile next month]
{{for|the 1996 film|Nirbhay (film)}}
{{Use Indian English|date=February 2018}}
{{Infobox weapon
| name = ''Nirbhay''
| image = Nirbhay missile test on 15 April 2019 (cropped).jpg
| caption = Nirbhay cruise missile launched on 15 April 2019
| type = Long-range, all-weather, subsonic [[cruise missile]]<ref name=Rusnavy>{{cite news|title=India to Test Nirbhay Cruise Missile in 2012|url=http://rusnavy.com/news/othernavies/index.php?ELEMENT_ID=13620|access-date=10 March 2012|newspaper=Rusnavy|date=November 2011}}</ref><ref name="cri.cn">{{cite web|url=http://english.cri.cn/6966/2010/04/11/2021s562399.htm|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120709032113/http://english.cri.cn/6966/2010/04/11/2021s562399.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 9, 2012|title=India Develops Sub-sonic Stealth Cruise Missile|access-date=8 October 2015}}</ref> <br> [[Surface-to-surface missile]]
| service = Limited deployment
| length = {{convert|6|m|ft|abbr=on}}
| diameter = {{convert|0.52|m|ft|abbr=on}}
| is_missile = yes
| origin = India
| used_by = [[Strategic Forces Command]] <br/> [[Indian Army]] <br/> [[Indian Air Force]] <br/> [[Indian Navy]]
| designer = [[Aeronautical Development Establishment]] ([[Defence Research and Development Organisation|DRDO]])<!-- Infobox weapon now allows design groups in the designer section -->
| manufacturer = [[Bharat Dynamics Limited]]
| unit_cost =
| production_date =
| propellant = '''First stage:''' [[Solid fuel]] <br/>'''Second stage:''' [[Liquid fuel]]
| engine = '''First stage:''' [[Solid rocket booster]] <br/>'''Second stage:'''
* [[Turbojet]]<ref>{{cite web |title=Nirbhay |url=https://missilethreat.csis.org/missile/nirbhay/ |website=Missile Threat |publisher=Center for Strategic and International Studies |access-date=11 August 2021}}</ref>
* [[Turbofan]]
** [[GTRE]] STFE MANIK<ref>{{cite web |title=Engine and Accessories |url=https://www.drdo.gov.in/engine-and-accessories |website=DRDO |publisher=Ministry of Defence |access-date=26 July 2021}}</ref>
| variants = ITCM <br/> SLCM <br/> LR-LACM
| weight = {{convert|1500|kg}}<ref>{{cite news |last1=Rout |first1=Hemant Kumar |title=3rd-time unlucky Nirbhay to try luck once more |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/odisha/2016/may/11/3rd-time-unlucky-nirbhay-to-try-luck-once-more-902448.html |access-date=22 November 2021 |agency=ENS |publisher=The New Indian Express |date=11 May 2016}}</ref>
| wingspan = {{convert|2.7|m|ft|abbr=on}}
| speed = 0.9 [[Mach number|Mach]]<ref name="et1"/><ref name="Defence Now">{{cite news |title=India to Test 'Nirbhay Cruise Missile, Develop Agni-V Variant with Multiple Warhead Capabilities |url=http://www.defencenow.com/news/680/india-to-test-nirbhay-cruise-missile-develop-agni-v-variant-with-mutliple-warhead-capabilities.html |publisher=Defence Now |access-date=28 February 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923213324/http://www.defencenow.com/news/680/india-to-test-nirbhay-cruise-missile-develop-agni-v-variant-with-mutliple-warhead-capabilities.html |archive-date=23 September 2015 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
| vehicle_range = up to {{convert|1500|km|mi|abbr=on}}<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/nirbhay-cruise-missile-test-fired-drdo-says-indigenous-engine-a-success-101628656458294.html|title = Nirbhay cruise missile test-fired; indigenous engine a success, say officials|date = 11 August 2021}}</ref>
| ceiling =
| altitude = {{cvt|50|m|ft}} to {{cvt|4|km|ft}}<ref>{{cite news |last1=Gupta |first1=Shishir |title=Nirbhay cruise missile test-fired; indigenous engine a success, say officials |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/nirbhay-cruise-missile-test-fired-drdo-says-indigenous-engine-a-success-101628656458294.html |access-date=18 January 2024 |publisher=Hindustan Times |date=11 August 2021}}</ref>
| filling = [[Conventional weapons|Conventional]] (PCB, [[blast fragmentation]])<ref name=autogenerated1>{{cite web |title=Cruise Missile - Nirbhay |url=https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Nirbhay_DRDO.jpg |website=DRDO |date=26 July 2021 |publisher=Ministry of Defence |access-date=26 July 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=120 mm Penetration Cum Blast (PCB) AND Thermobaric (TB) Ammunition For MBT Arjun |url=https://www.drdo.gov.in/120-mm-penetration-cum-blast-pcb-and-thermobaric-tb-ammunition-mbt-arjun |website=DRDO |publisher=Ministry of Defence |access-date=26 July 2021}}</ref> or <br> [[Nuclear weapons|Nuclear]]
| filling_weight = 200-300 kg
| guidance = '''Mid-course:''' [[Ring laser gyro]] [[inertial navigation system]] and [[Vibrating structure gyroscope|MEMS gyroscope]]. Augmented by [[GPS]]/[[NavIC]] [[satellite guidance]] <br/>'''Terminal:''' [[Active radar homing]], electro-optical, [[imaging infrared]]<ref>{{cite web |last1=CSIS |title=Nirbhay |url=https://missilethreat.csis.org/missile/nirbhay/ |website=Missile Threat |publisher=Center for Strategic and International Studies |access-date=9 March 2020}}</ref><ref name=autogenerated1 />
| detonation =
| launch_platform = Land-based mobile launcher
| transport = [[Tata LPTA]] 5252-12 X12 High Mobility Vehicle
}}


'''Nirbhay''' ({{Literal translation|Fearless}}) is a long range, all-weather, [[Cruise missile#Long-range subsonic|subsonic]] [[Cruise Missile]] designed and developed in India by the [[Aeronautical Development Establishment]] (ADE) which is under [[Defence Research and Development Organisation]] (DRDO).<ref>{{Cite web|last=Krishnan M|first=Anantha|date=10 January 2021|title=ADE steps into new decade with planeloads of critical projects|url=https://www.onmanorama.com/news/india/2021/01/09/ade-steps-into-new-decade-with-planeloads-of-critical-projects.html|access-date=2021-07-26|website=OnManorama}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Pandit|first=Rajat|date=8 November 2017|title=Nirbhay Missile: India successfully tests its first nuclear-capable cruise missile {{!}} India News - Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/india-successfully-tests-its-first-nuclear-capable-cruise-missile/articleshow/61550465.cms|access-date=2021-09-30|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref> The missile can be Launched from Multiple Platforms and is capable of carrying conventional and nuclear warheads. It is currently deployed in limited numbers in [[Line of Actual Control]] (LAC) during standoff with China.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Azam|first=Tanweer|date=2020-09-29|title=LAC standoff: India deploys long-range missile Nirbhay to tackle Chinese threat|url=https://zeenews.india.com/india/lac-standoff-india-deploys-long-range-missile-nirbhay-to-tackle-chinese-threat-2313199.html|access-date=2020-09-29|website=Zee News|language=en}}</ref>
'''Technical details:'''

==Design==
[[File:Nirbhay missiles during Republic Day Parade 2018.jpg|thumb|left|180px|Nirbhay missiles mounted on a truck-based launcher, 2018]]
Nirbhay is powered by a solid rocket booster for take off which is developed by Advanced Systems Laboratory (ASL). Upon reaching the required velocity and height, a [[turbofan]] engine in the missile takes over for further propulsion. The missile is guided by an inertial navigation system developed by [[Research Centre Imarat]] (RCI) and a radio altimeter for the height determination.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Menon|first1=Jay|title=India To Fly Subsonic Cruise Missile|url=http://aviationweek.com/defense/india-fly-subsonic-cruise-missile|website=Aviation Week|publisher=AWIN First|date=25 January 2013|access-date=9 December 2017|archive-date=10 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171210074805/http://aviationweek.com/defense/india-fly-subsonic-cruise-missile|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=|date=9 January 2018|title=Long-range cruise missile 'Nirbhay' test-fired|url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/longrange-cruise-missile-nirbhay-testfired/article9946323.ece|access-date=2021-09-30|website=Business Line|language=en}}</ref> The missile has a [[ring laser gyroscope]] (RLG) based guidance, control and navigation system. It also has a [[Microelectromechanical systems|microelectromechanical system]] ([[Vibrating structure gyroscope|MEMS]]) based [[inertial navigation system]] (INS) along with the [[Global Positioning System|GPS]]/[[NavIC]] system.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=173291|title=Press Information Bureau|access-date=2017-11-08}}</ref> The missile has a length of 6 metres, width of 0.52 metres, a wing span of 2.7 metres and weighs about 1500&nbsp;kg. It has a range of about 1500&nbsp;km and is capable of delivering 24 different types of warheads depending on mission requirements between 200 and 300&nbsp;kg.<ref name="et1">{{Cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/india-test-fires-subsonic-cruise-missile-nirbhay/articleshow/61543937.cms|title=India test fires subsonic cruise missile 'Nirbhay'|date=2018-01-27|work=The Economic Times|access-date=2020-02-06}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/nuke-capable-nirbhay-cruise-missile-fails-again-flight-aborted/|title=Nuke-capable Nirbhay cruise missile fails again, flight aborted|date=2015-10-17|website=The Indian Express|access-date=2015-10-22}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Joseph|first=Josy|date=21 July 2007|title=Nirbhay to beef up missile muscle|url=http://www.dnaindia.com/report.asp?NewsID=1111269|access-date=1 October 2021|work=DNA India}}</ref>

The missile is claimed to have [[Sea skimming|sea-skimming]] and [[Loitering munition|loitering capability]], i.e., it can go round a target and perform several manoeuvres and then re-engage it. It is also able to pick out a target and attack it among multiple targets.<ref name=The_hindu>{{cite news|last=T. S. Subramanian|title=Nirbhay likely to be test-fired in April|url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/article2968219.ece|access-date=10 March 2012|newspaper=The Hindu|date=March 2012|location=Chennai, India}}</ref> With two side wings, the missile is capable of flying at different altitudes ranging from 50 m to 4&nbsp;km above the ground and can also fly at low altitudes (like low tree level) to avoid detection by enemy radar.<ref name="toi25j">{{cite news|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-01-25/india/36547436_1_cruise-missile-brahmos-km-range|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130216070154/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-01-25/india/36547436_1_cruise-missile-brahmos-km-range|url-status=dead|archive-date=16 February 2013|title=India to test subsonic cruise missile in February|date=25 January 2013|newspaper=[[The Times of India]]|access-date=25 January 2013}}</ref><ref name=hindd>{{cite web|url=http://www.hindu.com/2008/05/09/stories/2008050955301300.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080513092221/http://www.hindu.com/2008/05/09/stories/2008050955301300.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=13 May 2008|work=[[The Hindu]]|title=DRDO developing hypersonic missile|date=2008-05-09|access-date=8 October 2015}}</ref> It will eventually supplement the role played by [[BrahMos]] missile for the Indian Armed Forces by delivering warheads farther than the 450&nbsp;km range.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/brahmos-cruise-missile-range-to-increase-to-450km-drdo-chief/story-iJi2AKJBlEblDEyoxnLyKO.html|title=From 290 km to 450 km: India to soon test extended range BrahMos missile|date=15 February 2017|access-date=7 November 2017}}</ref>

===Development and trials===
After the design was finalized, the technology required for the missile was developed. It was integrated by [[Research and Development Establishment]] (Engineers), a specialized arm of DRDO.<ref name=hindd /> [[Tata Motors]] has built the vehicle that is the carrier/launcher for the Nirbhay system and is based on a "high mobility, all-terrain and all-wheel drive [[Tata LPTA|Tata LPTA 5252]]-12×12 vehicle", developed in partnership with DRDO.<ref name=tmdv>{{cite web|title=Tata Motors' Defence Vehicles|url=http://tatamotors.com/pdf/defence-expo-2012-background-note.pdf|work=DEFEXPO 2012|publisher=Tata Motors|access-date=19 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120525065100/http://tatamotors.com/pdf/defence-expo-2012-background-note.pdf|archive-date=25 May 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref>

The first test flight of the missile was planned in October 2012,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mangalorean.com/news.php?newstype=local&newsid=48826|title=Mangalorean.com - Mangalore News Articles, Classifieds to Around the World|access-date=8 October 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120206001710/http://mangalorean.com/news.php?newstype=local&newsid=48826|archive-date=6 February 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-09-05/india/33615016_1_inter-continental-ballistic-missile-missile-project-stealth-missile|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120908180721/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-09-05/india/33615016_1_inter-continental-ballistic-missile-missile-project-stealth-missile|url-status=dead|archive-date=8 September 2012|work=[[The Times of India]]|title='Nirbhay' missile set for test-firing next month|access-date=8 October 2015}}</ref> but the launch was postponed to December owing to the changes being made to the launcher. [[V. K. Saraswat]], Director General & Scientific Adviser of DRDO, later said that the missile would be tested in February 2013. He said the delay was due to development of some processes. DRDO expected the missile to be ready for induction within 12 to 18 months after the February test.<ref name=toi25j /><ref name="ec25j">{{cite news|date=25 January 2013|title=India to launch sub-sonic missile, Nirbhay, next month: DRDO|newspaper=The Economic Times|url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/india-to-launch-sub-sonic-missile-nirbhay-next-month-drdo/articleshow/18182021.cms|access-date=25 January 2013}}</ref><ref name="toi19j">{{cite news|title = Nirbhay to be test-fired in February|url = http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-01-19/india/36431317_1_v-k-saraswat-long-range-cruise-missile-agni-iv|archive-url = https://archive.today/20130216063204/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-01-19/india/36431317_1_v-k-saraswat-long-range-cruise-missile-agni-iv|url-status = dead|archive-date = 16 February 2013|access-date = 19 January 2013|newspaper = [[The Times of India]]|date = 19 January 2013}}</ref> There were unconfirmed media reports that the missile would be scrapped due to multiple test failures but it was then reported that the project has been given an 18-month extension, till June 2018, to fix all outstanding issues.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Raghuvanshi|first=Vivek|date=2017-05-25|title=India Extends Homemade Missile Program Despite Failed Test|url=https://www.defensenews.com/naval/2017/01/11/india-extends-homemade-missile-program-despite-failed-test/|access-date=2021-09-30|website=Defense News|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Bhat|first=Aditya|date=2017-01-09|title=Parrikar gives lifeline to Nirbhay missile team, project gets extension till June 2018|url=https://www.ibtimes.co.in/parrikar-gives-lifeline-nirbhay-missile-team-project-gets-extension-till-june-2018-711588|access-date=2021-09-30|website=IB Times|language=en}}</ref> Nirbhay cruise missile has a single shot kill ratio of above 90 percent.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Gupta|first=Shishir|date=2020-10-01|title=India moves terrain-hugging Nirbhay missiles with 1,000-km range to defend LAC|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/india-moves-terrain-hugging-nirbhay-missiles-with-1-000-km-range-to-defend-lac/story-yf5IrC1IhjVjbVv1aOJWSO.html|access-date=2021-07-27|website=Hindustan Times|language=en}}</ref>

==== Trials ====
[[File:Nirbhay cruise missile.jpg|thumb|177x177px|First trial of Nirbhay Long Range Cruise Missile (LRCM) launched at [[Chandipur, Odisha|Chandipur]], [[Odisha]] on March 12, 2013.|alt=|left]]The surface version of Nirbhay missile was test fired for the first time on 12 March 2013 from the [[Integrated Test Range]] (ITR) at Chandipur in Balasore district of Odisha. The missile in its maiden flight was supposed to hit a static target situated 1500&nbsp;km away in the Bay of Bengal. Missile took off from the launch pad successfully and reached the second stage of propulsion, traveling 15 minutes through its envisaged path at a speed of 0.7 mach. After that it veered away from its trajectory forcing the command center to detach the engine from the missile midway into the flight. This was done to avoid the risk of the missile hitting the coastal areas. The missile was purposely destroyed in mid-flight.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/nirbhay-missile-flight-terminated-after-it-deviates-from-path/article4500527.ece | location=Chennai, India | work=The Hindu | first1=Y. | last1=Mallikarjun | first2=T. S. | last2=Subramanian | title=Nirbhay strays from flight path, aborted | date=12 March 2013}}</ref>

The test was a partial success as the missile took off, reached the second stage of propulsion, and traveled 30% of its range and completed most of the mission objectives, before deviating from its path. DRDO has detected the problem which was a faulty inertial navigation system and corrected the same in subsequent tests.[[File:Nirbhay missile test on 17 October 2014.jpg|thumb|132x132px|Second successful trial launch of Nirbhay subsonic cruise missile from Integrated Test Range on October 17, 2014|alt=]]A second launch of the Nirbhay missile was scheduled for February–May 2014<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.deccanherald.com/content/384620/second-test-nirbhay-cruise-missile.html|title=Second test of Nirbhay cruise missile in February|work=Deccan Herald|date=5 February 2014|access-date=8 October 2015}}</ref> but it was further delayed until October 2014. Slight delay in October was also due to cyclone [[Cyclone Hudhud|Hudhud]]. On 17 October 2014, the surface version of the missile was tested once again from the Integrated Test Range at Chandipur in Balasore district of Odisha, and this time the test was successful. The missile test met all the parameters & completed all 15 way-points. The missile traveled for more than 1500&nbsp;km that lasted for a duration of over 1 hour and 10 minutes. The missile was tracked with the help of ground-based radars and its health parameters were monitored by telemetry stations from DRDO's ITR and LRDE (Electronics & Radar Development Establishment).<ref>{{cite news|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/India-test-fires-nuclear-capable-Nirbhay-cruise-missile/articleshow/44845526.cms|title=India test-fires nuclear-capable Nirbhay cruise missile|work=The Times of India|date=17 October 2014 |access-date=8 October 2015}}</ref> An Indian Air Force [[SEPECAT Jaguar]] chased the missile during its flight to capture the video of the flight.

The third test of the missile took place on 16 October 2015.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/subsonic-cruise-missile-nirbhay-to-be-testfired-today/article7768335.ece|title=Subsonic cruise missile Nirbhay to be test-fired today|author=Y. Mallikarjun|work=The Hindu|date=16 October 2015}}</ref> The missile was to be tested for its low flying capability. The missile in flight was supposed to be brought down from 4800 meters to 20 meters gradually and in stages. A [[Su-30MKI]] aircraft videotaped the flight.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.oneindia.com/india/nirbhay-missile-set-for-critical-low-altitude-trial-sukhoi-to-chase-oneindia-special-1898796.html|title=OneIndia Special: Nirbhay missile set for critical low-altitude trial; Sukhoi to chase|first=Dr Anantha Krishnan|last=M|date=October 14, 2015|website=One India}}</ref> A press release by the [[Ministry of Defence (India)|Ministry of Defence]] stated the missile was launched at 11:38 IST and all initial critical operations such as Booster ignition, Booster separation, Wing deployment and engine start were successfully executed and Nirbhay reached the desired Cruise Altitude.<ref>{{cite news |author= |date=17 October 2015 |title=Flight of Nirbhay Missile Aborted after 700 Seconds of Launch |url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/government-press-release/flight-of-nirbhay-missile-aborted-after-700-seconds-of-launch-115101601233_1.html |access-date=19 January 2024 |work=Business Standard}}</ref> Although the take off was successful after repeated disruptions of countdown, the missile crashed into the Bay of Bengal 11 minutes into its flight after covering only 128&nbsp;km of its 1500&nbsp;km range.<ref>{{cite web|date=16 October 2015|title=Nirbhay, India's Indigenous Cruise Missile, Fails Test Midway|url=http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/nirbhay-indias-indigenous-cruise-missile-fails-midway-1233086|work=NDTV}}</ref>

The fourth test of the missile took place on 21 December 2016 from Launch Complex-III of Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Balasore in Odisha around 11:56 [[Indian Standard Time|IST]].<ref>{{Cite news|date=2016-12-21|title=Long range Subsonic cruise missile Nirbhaya test fired from ITR|language=en-US|newspaper=Daily Excelsior|url=http://www.dailyexcelsior.com/long-range-subsonic-cruise-missile-nirbhaya-test-fired-itr/|access-date=2016-12-21}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://odishasuntimes.com/2016/12/21/nirbhay-missile-test-fired-off-odisha-coast/|title=Nirbhay missile test fired off Odisha coast|last=Biswajeet|date=2016-12-21|website=OdishaSunTimes.com|access-date=2016-12-21|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161225162400/http://odishasuntimes.com/2016/12/21/nirbhay-missile-test-fired-off-odisha-coast/|archive-date=2016-12-25|url-status=dead}}</ref> There has been no official word on the test outcome, however according to news reports this test was not successful. The booster engine in the first stage started working and lifted the missile off from its launcher. But the missile started veering dangerously towards one side in two minutes after lift-off and veered outside its safety corridor. Due to this, the test was aborted and the missile was remotely destroyed. A potential reason for the failure was described as a hardware problem with one of the missile's component.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/Nirbhay-missile-test-%E2%80%9Can-utter-failure%E2%80%9D/article16915750.ece|title=Nirbhay missile test "an utter failure"|last=Subramanian|first=T.S.|newspaper=The Hindu|access-date=2016-12-21}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/nuclear-capable-nirbhay-cruise-missiles-test-fails-for-the-fourth-time/articleshow/56105444.cms|title=Nuclear-capable Nirbhay cruise missile's test fails for the fourth time - Times of India|newspaper=The Times of India|access-date=2016-12-21}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |url=http://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/nirbhay-failed-due-to-use-of-recycled-material/article19195215.ece|title='Nirbhay failed due to use of recycled material' -The Hindu|last=Bhattcharjee|first=Sumit|newspaper=The Hindu|access-date=2017-07-01}}</ref>[[File:Nirbhay missile launch on 7 November 2017.jpg|thumb|159x159px|Fifth successful trial flight tested on November 07, 2017.|alt=|left]]The fifth successful test of the missile took place on 7 November 2017 from Launch Complex-III of Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Balasore in Odisha around 11:20 IST. The flight test was a success and met all mission objectives. During the test, the missile traveled a distance of 647&nbsp;km over a 50 minute duration, and was tracked by ground based radars and telemetry stations.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Pandit|first=Rajat|date=8 November 2017|title=Nirbhay Missile: India successfully tests its first nuclear-capable cruise missile|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/india-successfully-tests-its-first-nuclear-capable-cruise-missile/articleshow/61550465.cms|access-date=2021-11-22|website=The Times of India|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.janes.com/article/75497/india-conducts-successful-flight-test-of-nirbhay-cruise-missile|title=India conducts successful flight test of Nirbhay cruise missile {{!}} Jane's 360|website=www.janes.com|access-date=2017-11-08}}</ref> This trial of the missile used a turbojet engine instead of a turbofan engine<ref>{{cite web|title=India's subsonic cruise missile Nirbhay ready for fifth trial|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/indias-subsonic-cruise-missile-nirbhay-ready-for-fifth-trial/articleshow/61518806.cms|website=Economic Times|access-date=1 February 2018}}</ref>[[File:Nirbhay missile test on 15 April 2019.jpg|thumb|156x156px|Sixth missile trial from Integrated Test Range, Odisha on 15 April 2019.]]
The sixth successful trial took place on April 15, 2019. Traversing around 650&nbsp;km, the test missile navigated way-points located at altitudes varying from 5 meters to 2.5&nbsp;km. DRDO clarified that all mission objectives were met.<ref>{{Cite journal|title=Long-range sub-sonic cruise missile Nirbhay successfully test-fired|url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/long-range-sub-sonic-cruise-missile-nirbhay-successfully-test-fired/article26842044.ece|journal=Business Line|date=15 April 2019 }}</ref> The test also validated the [[Terrain-following radar|terrain hugging]] and the [[sea skimming]] capability of the missile.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/sub-sonic-cruise-missile-nirbhay-successfully-test-fired/article26849032.ece|title=Sub-sonic cruise missile 'Nirbhay' successfully test-fired|date=2019-04-16|work=The Hindu|access-date=2019-08-26|language=en-IN|issn=0971-751X}}</ref>

This trial completed the developmental trials of the missile. The next set of trials will be conducted as per the requirements of the [[Indian Armed Forces]].<ref name=":1">{{Cite news|url=https://www.theweek.in/news/india/2019/04/16/nirbhay-cruise-missile-to-be-tested-desi-engine-future.html|title=Nirbhay cruise missile to be tested with 'desi' engine in future|date=16 April 2019|work=The Week|access-date=26 August 2019}}</ref>

Nirbhay project is now technically closed after completing six developmental trials. The next phase of tests will happen from April 2020 under a new name called Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile (ITCM). It will include Small Turbo Fan Engine (STFE) developed by [[Gas Turbine Research Establishment]] (GTRE) and a [[Radio frequency|radio-frequency]] (RF) seeker from [[Research Centre Imarat]] (RCI). A separate air-launched variant and submarine-launched variant is under active development.<ref>{{Cite web|title=India set to develop long range, land attack cruise missile|url=https://english.manoramaonline.com/news/nation/2020/02/06/india-defexpo-long-range-land-attack-cruise-missile.html|access-date=2020-02-06|website=OnManorama|language=en}}</ref>

=== Further Development ===
DRDO announced the completion of Nirbhay cruise missile development project on 6 February 2023, and also unveiled a number of new cruise and anti-ship missiles that are being developed in light of the lessons learned from Nirbhay.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=Dahlgren |first=Masao |date=2020-02-07 |title=India Reveals New Cruise, Antiship Missiles |url=https://missilethreat.csis.org/india-reveals-new-cruise-antiship-missiles/ |access-date=2023-12-24 |website=Missile Threat - Center for Strategic and International Studies Missile Defence Project |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name="HT101681711263371">{{cite web |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/nuke-triad-proven-india-to-build-conventional-missile-deterrent-101681711263371.html |title=Nuke triad proven, India to build conventional missile deterrent |author=Shishir Gupta |date=17 April 2023 |website=www.hindustantimes.com |access-date=21 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230419114957/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/nuke-triad-proven-india-to-build-conventional-missile-deterrent-101681711263371.html |archive-date=19 April 2023|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Variants==

=== Base variant ===
The standard Nirbhay subsonic cruise missile is powered by a Russian NPO Saturn 36MT engine.

=== Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile (ITCM) ===
The Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile (ITCM) is based on Nirbhay missile but uses locally developed [[Gas Turbine Research Establishment#Manik Engine/Small Turbo Fan Engine (STFE)|Small Turbo Fan Engine]] (STFE), also known as Manik Engine from [[Gas Turbine Research Establishment]]. The ITCM is a technology demonstrator programme to validate the capability of STFE, upgraded radio frequency (RF) seekers, and other subsystems. The main objective of this programme to achieve 100% indigenous contents in the cruise missile<ref>{{Cite web |title=Cruise control: India accelerates development of tactical missiles |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/cruise-control-india-accelerates-development-of-tactical-missiles |access-date=2024-01-05 |website=Janes.com |language=en}}</ref>

==== Trials ====
[[File:ITCM Missle Test.webm|thumb|ITCM Missle Test with MANIK Small Turbo Fan Engine on 18 April 2024.]]
On 12 October 2020, the missile was test fired for the first time with indigenously developed GTRE STFE MANIK turbofan engine. The test was aborted after 8 minutes of launch.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Gupta |first1=Shishir |date=12 October 2020 |title=DRDO fires Nirbhay cruise missile into sea, hits abort after 8 minutes |publisher=Hindustan Times |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/drdo-fires-nirbhay-cruise-missile-into-sea-hits-abort-after-8-minutes/story-pwMlu7YRVvgiHuhA0P2rfI.html |access-date=12 October 2020}}</ref> As per DRDO, the missile deviated from predetermined flight path and was destroyed mid-air by mission control team.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Rout |first1=Hemant Kumar |title=India likely to conduct maiden test of Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile on October 12 |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/odisha/2020/oct/11/india-likely-to-conduct-maiden-test-of-indigenous-technology-cruise-missile-on-october-12-2208832.html |access-date=29 October 2022 |agency=ENS |publisher=The New Indian Express |date=11 October 2020}}</ref><ref name="Rout">{{Cite web |last=Rout |first=Hemant Kumar |date=29 October 2022 |title=Homegrown cruise missile system hit by technical snag |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/odisha/2022/oct/29/homegrown-cruise-missile-system-hit-by-technical-snag-2512880.html |access-date=2022-10-29 |website=The New Indian Express}}</ref>

On 24 June 2021, Nirbhay was successfully test-fired from Launch Pad No. 3 of the Integrated Test Range at Chandipur.<ref>{{cite news |date=2021-06-24 |title=Nirbhay Cruise Missile Test-Fired Off Odisha Coast |url=https://sambadenglish.com/nirbhay-cruise-missile-test-fired-off-odisha-coast/ |access-date=2021-06-24 |publisher=Sambad English}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-06-24 |title=CM congratulates DRDO for successful launch of missile 'Nirbhay' off Odisha Coast |url=https://kalingatv.com/state/cm-congratulates-drdo-for-successful-launch-of-missile-nirbhay-off-odisha-coast/ |access-date=2021-06-26 |website=KalingaTV |language=en-US}}</ref> The successful test was conducted with the GTRE Manik engine paving the way for a full range test.<ref>{{Cite web |title=DRDO tastes success with new turbofan engine after Odisha test launch |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/odisha/2021/aug/12/drdo-tastes-success-with-new-turbofan-engine-after-odisha-test-launch-2343690.html |access-date=2022-02-13 |website=The New Indian Express}}</ref> On 11 August 2021, ITCM was test fired from Integrated Test Range (ITR). But it was a partial success. As per DRDO officials, MANIK engine performed well but the missile failed to achieve the desired range due to failure in control mechanism.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Rout |first1=Hemant Kumar |title=DRDO tastes maiden success with new turbofan engine in indigenous cruise missile |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2021/aug/11/drdo-tastes-maiden-success-with-new-turbofan-engine-in-indigenous-cruise-missile-2343378.html |access-date=29 October 2022 |agency=ENS |publisher=The New Indian Express |date=11 August 2021}}</ref><ref name="Rout" />

On 28 October 2022, ITCM test fired from ITR failed due to a snag in the engine after separation of booster stage. This test included an upgraded radio frequency seeker.<ref name="Rout" /> On 21 February 2023, ITCM was test fired successfully. Fitted with an upgraded radio frequency seeker and Manik engine.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Cruise control: India accelerates development of tactical missiles |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/cruise-control-india-accelerates-development-of-tactical-missiles |access-date=2023-07-15 |website=Janes.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Odisha: स्वदेशी तकनीक से बनी ITCM मिसाइल का सफल परीक्षण, भारत को मिसाइल क्षेत्र में बनाएगा आत्मनिर्भर |url=https://www.jagran.com/odisha/bhubaneshwar-odisha-news-successful-test-of-itcm-missile-made-of-indigenous-technology-23336757.html |access-date=2023-02-21 |website=Dainik Jagran |language=hi}}</ref>

On 18 April 2024, DRDO successfully test launched ITCM from the Integrated Test Range. The missile displayed very low altitude sea-skimming flight and used way point navigation to follow the intended course.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-04-18 |title=DRDO successfully tests Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/drdo-successfully-tested-indigenous-technology-cruise-missile/articleshow/109403256.cms |access-date=2024-04-18 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> The [[Gas_Turbine_Research_Establishment#Manik_Engine/Small_Turbo_Fan_Engine_(STFE)|MANIK Small Turbo Fan Engine]] has proven to be dependable, as demonstrated by this successful flight test. To provide improved and dependable performance, the missile was additionally outfitted with updated avionics and software. The missile was followed by one of IAF's [[Sukhoi Su-30MKI]] jet to study the performance of the missile.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Negi |first=Manjeet |date=18 April 2024 |title=India tests Nirbhay cruise missile with indigenous propulsion system in big leap |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/indigenous-technology-cruise-missile-successfully-test-fired-off-odisha-coast-2528809-2024-04-18 |access-date=2024-04-18 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile successfully flight-tested by DRDO off the Odisha coast |url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2018171 |access-date=2024-04-18 |website=pib.gov.in}}</ref>

=== Submarine Launched Cruise Missile (SLCM) ===
The Submarine Launched Cruise Missile (SLCM) is a missile designed to launch from torpedo tubes of submarines. It is a compact version of Nirbhay missile. It has a stated range of 500&nbsp;km, with a cruise length of 5.6 meter, diameter of 0.505 meter, all up weight of 975&nbsp;kg and Mach 0.7 speed. It would feature INS/GPS navigation, with an RF seeker for terminal guidance. It comes with two variants: a ''Land attack cruise missile (LACM)'' and ''Anti-Ship Cruise Missile (ASCM)''.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |last=Menon |first=Adithya Krishna |date=2023-12-14 |title=India Focuses on Long Range Naval Missiles Development |url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2023/12/india-focuses-on-long-range-naval-missiles-development/ |access-date=2024-01-05 |website=Naval News |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name=":2" />

The missile shall be a part of the weapons package of [[Project-75 (India) submarine acquisition project|Project 75(I) submarines]].<ref name=":4">{{Cite news |date=2024-02-15 |title=India likely to test 500 km strike range submarine launched cruise missile in March |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/india-to-test-500-km-strike-range-submarine-launched-cruise-missile-in-march/articleshow/107717199.cms |access-date=2024-02-15 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref>

There are plans to extend the missile's range to 800 km. During flight, SLCMs follow a low altitude trajectory. They skim close to the surface to stay out of the radar systems' altitude range. The missile would be tested initially on [[Sindhughosh-class submarine|Sindhughosh-class submarines]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sharma |first=Ritu |date=2024-02-25 |title=India Develops Its Own 'Rocket Force' Akin To China's PLARF; Aims To Counter Beijing's Asymmetric Edge |url=https://www.eurasiantimes.com/akin-to-chinas-plarf-india-is-developing-its-own-new/ |access-date=2024-02-25 |website=Latest Asian, Middle-East, EurAsian, Indian News |language=en-US}}</ref>

==== Trials ====
In February 2023, the maiden successful trail of SLCM was conducted by DRDO, which met all the mission objectives with a range of 402&nbsp;km.<ref name=":3" /><ref>{{Cite web |title=DRDO In Feb 2023 Had Secretly Tested Indigenous SLCM Capable of Striking 500 Kilometres Away |url=https://www.indiandefensenews.in/2023/11/drdo-in-feb-2023-had-secretly-tested.html |access-date=2024-01-05}}</ref>

In March 2024, another test is expected to be carried with a possible target range of 500 km.<ref name=":4" /><ref>{{Cite web |last=Roushan |first=Anurag |last2= |first2= |date=2024-02-15 |title=India likely to test indigenously developed Submarine Launched Cruise Missile in March: Know all about it |url=https://www.indiatvnews.com/news/india/india-likely-to-test-indigenously-drdo-developed-submarine-launched-cruise-missile-in-march-know-all-about-it-navy-eastern-coast-2024-02-15-917023 |access-date=2024-02-15 |website=www.indiatvnews.com |language=en}}</ref>

=== Long Range-Land Attack Cruise Missile (LR-LACM) ===
The LR-LACM, a longer range variant, will have a range up to 1,500&nbsp;km. This missile would be operated by both the Indian Navy and Indian Air Force when development is complete. This missile would be compatible with the Universal Vertical Launch Module (UVLM) cells used for [[BrahMos]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=DefExpo: Indian Navy to get new cruise missile for land-attack missions |url=https://www.theweek.in/news/india/2020/02/06/defexpo-indian-navy-to-get-new-cruise-missile-for-land-attack-missions.html |access-date=2024-01-05 |website=The Week |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":3" /> The missile received Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) from Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) in August 2023. It will weigh a tonne, have a length of 6 m and diameter of 0.52 m. The missile is designed to have two tapering-chord fold-out wings with a span of 2.7 m. The missile would be equipped with [[Gas Turbine Research Establishment#Manik Engine/Small Turbo Fan Engine (STFE)|Small Turbofan Engines]] (STFEs), upgraded radio frequency (RF) seekers, and other subsystems.<ref>{{Cite web |title=India approves AoN to acquire Long-Range Land Attack Cruise Missile |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/india-approves-aon-to-acquire-long-range-land-attack-cruise-missile |access-date=2024-01-29 |website=Janes.com |language=en}}</ref>

== Induction ==
[[Ministry of Defence (India)|Ministry of Defence]] (MoD) is considering a proposal from one of the service for the induction of Nirbhay and is at an advance stage of discussion. Once cleared, all the three services of [[Indian Armed Forces]] will have Nirbhay in their arsenal. Government already cleared the induction of Nirbhay in two services about two years ago.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-11-14 |title=Nirbhay class long-range cruise missiles to be part in all three defence forces' arsenal |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/nirbhay-class-long-range-cruise-missiles-to-be-part-in-all-three-defence-forces-arsenal/articleshow/105214057.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2023-11-15 |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> Nirbhay, [[Pralay (missile)|Pralay]], [[BrahMos|Brahmos]] and [[Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher|Pinaka]] will become part of the [[Integrated Rocket Force]] (IRF), a separate entity from [[Strategic Forces Command]] (SFC).<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-05-17 |title=Will India finally have a dedicated rocket force? |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/will-india-finally-have-a-dedicated-rocket-force/articleshow/100291322.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2023-11-15 |issn=0971-8257}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Bommakanti |first=Kartik |date=27 May 2023 |title=Integrated rocket force: Imperfect but a step in the right direction |url=https://www.orfonline.org/expert-speak/integrated-rocket-force/ |access-date=15 November 2023 |website=Observer Research Foundation}}</ref>

== Operators ==
{{IND}}

* [[Indian Army]]
* [[Indian Air Force]]
* [[Indian Navy]]

==See also==
{{Portal|India|Rocketry|Nuclear technology}}
*[[Kh-55]] - Russia
*[[3M-54 Klub|3M14]] -Russia
*[[BGM-109 Tomahawk]] - United States
*[[Hyunmoo-3]] - South Korea
*[[CJ-10 (missile)|CJ-10]] - China
*[[Hongniao|HN-1/2/3]] - China
*[[Qader (missile)|Qader]] - Iran
*[[Atmaca]] - Turkey
*[[SOM (missile)|SOM]] - Turkey
*[[Noor (missile)|Noor ASCM]] - Iran
*[[Zafar (anti-ship missile)|Zafar]] - Iran
*[[Babur (cruise missile)|Babur]] - Pakistan
*[[YJ-83]] - China
*[[YJ-62]] - China
*[[Otomat]] - Italy
*[[Storm Shadow|MdCN]] - UK, France, Italy
*[[List of missiles by country]]
*[[India and weapons of mass destruction]]

==References==
{{reflist|30em}}

==External links==
{{commons category|Nirbhay}}
* [http://missilethreat.csis.org/missile/nirbhay/ CSIS Missile Threat - Nirbhay]
* [http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ur5BBnLiOKc/Tyrj8P46_xI/AAAAAAAAAy4/la0HKLEbljk/s1600/CEMILAC+Poster-1.jpg Nirbhay integration into Su-30MKI]
* [http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gj7i7MbMDeE/TyrlWqdFWgI/AAAAAAAAAzI/6GvuGmufKqY/s1600/LFRJ.jpg Liquid fuel Ramjet technology]
* [http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-to-launch-subsonic-missile-next-month/article4344332.ece India to launch sub-sonic missile next month]

'''Technical:'''
* [https://www.drdo.gov.in/sites/default/files/inline-files/STFE_WRITEUP.pdf Engine Layout and Modules of MANIK STFE]
* [https://www.drdo.gov.in/sites/default/files/inline-files/STFE_WRITEUP.pdf Engine Layout and Modules of MANIK STFE]
* [https://www.drdo.gov.in/sites/default/files/technology-focus-documrnt/TF_May-Jun_2018_web.pdf DRDO Technology Focus: Warhead for Missiles, Torpedoes and Rockets]
* [https://www.drdo.gov.in/sites/default/files/technology-focus-documrnt/TF_May-Jun_2018_web.pdf DRDO Technology Focus : Warhead for Missiles, Torpedoes and Rockets]


{{Indian missiles}}
{{Indian missiles}}

Revision as of 18:37, 18 April 2024

For the 1996 film, see Nirbhay (film).

Nirbhay
Nirbhay cruise missile launched on 15 April 2019
TypeLong-range, all-weather, subsonic cruise missile[1][2]
Surface-to-surface missile
Place of originIndia
Service history
In serviceLimited deployment
Used byStrategic Forces Command
Indian Army
Indian Air Force
Indian Navy
Production history
DesignerAeronautical Development Establishment (DRDO)
ManufacturerBharat Dynamics Limited
VariantsITCM
SLCM
LR-LACM
Specifications
Mass1,500 kilograms (3,300 lb)[3]
Length6 m (20 ft)
Diameter0.52 m (1.7 ft)
Wingspan2.7 m (8.9 ft)
WarheadConventional (PCB, blast fragmentation)[4][5] or
Nuclear
Warhead weight200-300 kg
EngineFirst stage: Solid rocket booster
Second stage:
PropellantFirst stage: Solid fuel
Second stage: Liquid fuel
Operational
range
up to 1,500 km (930 mi)[8]
Flight altitude50 m (160 ft) to 4 km (13,000 ft)[9]
Maximum speed 0.9 Mach[10][11]
Guidance
system
Mid-course: Ring laser gyro inertial navigation system and MEMS gyroscope. Augmented by GPS/NavIC satellite guidance
Terminal: Active radar homing, electro-optical, imaging infrared[12][4]
Launch
platform
Land-based mobile launcher
TransportTata LPTA 5252-12 X12 High Mobility Vehicle

Nirbhay (lit. 'Fearless') is a long range, all-weather, subsonic Cruise Missile designed and developed in India by the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) which is under Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).[13][14] The missile can be Launched from Multiple Platforms and is capable of carrying conventional and nuclear warheads. It is currently deployed in limited numbers in Line of Actual Control (LAC) during standoff with China.[15]

Design

Nirbhay missiles mounted on a truck-based launcher, 2018

Nirbhay is powered by a solid rocket booster for take off which is developed by Advanced Systems Laboratory (ASL). Upon reaching the required velocity and height, a turbofan engine in the missile takes over for further propulsion. The missile is guided by an inertial navigation system developed by Research Centre Imarat (RCI) and a radio altimeter for the height determination.[16][17] The missile has a ring laser gyroscope (RLG) based guidance, control and navigation system. It also has a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) based inertial navigation system (INS) along with the GPS/NavIC system.[18] The missile has a length of 6 metres, width of 0.52 metres, a wing span of 2.7 metres and weighs about 1500 kg. It has a range of about 1500 km and is capable of delivering 24 different types of warheads depending on mission requirements between 200 and 300 kg.[10][19][20]

The missile is claimed to have sea-skimming and loitering capability, i.e., it can go round a target and perform several manoeuvres and then re-engage it. It is also able to pick out a target and attack it among multiple targets.[21] With two side wings, the missile is capable of flying at different altitudes ranging from 50 m to 4 km above the ground and can also fly at low altitudes (like low tree level) to avoid detection by enemy radar.[22][23] It will eventually supplement the role played by BrahMos missile for the Indian Armed Forces by delivering warheads farther than the 450 km range.[24]

Development and trials

After the design was finalized, the technology required for the missile was developed. It was integrated by Research and Development Establishment (Engineers), a specialized arm of DRDO.[23] Tata Motors has built the vehicle that is the carrier/launcher for the Nirbhay system and is based on a "high mobility, all-terrain and all-wheel drive Tata LPTA 5252-12×12 vehicle", developed in partnership with DRDO.[25]

The first test flight of the missile was planned in October 2012,[26][27] but the launch was postponed to December owing to the changes being made to the launcher. V. K. Saraswat, Director General & Scientific Adviser of DRDO, later said that the missile would be tested in February 2013. He said the delay was due to development of some processes. DRDO expected the missile to be ready for induction within 12 to 18 months after the February test.[22][28][29] There were unconfirmed media reports that the missile would be scrapped due to multiple test failures but it was then reported that the project has been given an 18-month extension, till June 2018, to fix all outstanding issues.[30][31] Nirbhay cruise missile has a single shot kill ratio of above 90 percent.[32]

Trials

First trial of Nirbhay Long Range Cruise Missile (LRCM) launched at Chandipur, Odisha on March 12, 2013.

The surface version of Nirbhay missile was test fired for the first time on 12 March 2013 from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur in Balasore district of Odisha. The missile in its maiden flight was supposed to hit a static target situated 1500 km away in the Bay of Bengal. Missile took off from the launch pad successfully and reached the second stage of propulsion, traveling 15 minutes through its envisaged path at a speed of 0.7 mach. After that it veered away from its trajectory forcing the command center to detach the engine from the missile midway into the flight. This was done to avoid the risk of the missile hitting the coastal areas. The missile was purposely destroyed in mid-flight.[33] The test was a partial success as the missile took off, reached the second stage of propulsion, and traveled 30% of its range and completed most of the mission objectives, before deviating from its path. DRDO has detected the problem which was a faulty inertial navigation system and corrected the same in subsequent tests.

Second successful trial launch of Nirbhay subsonic cruise missile from Integrated Test Range on October 17, 2014

A second launch of the Nirbhay missile was scheduled for February–May 2014[34] but it was further delayed until October 2014. Slight delay in October was also due to cyclone Hudhud. On 17 October 2014, the surface version of the missile was tested once again from the Integrated Test Range at Chandipur in Balasore district of Odisha, and this time the test was successful. The missile test met all the parameters & completed all 15 way-points. The missile traveled for more than 1500 km that lasted for a duration of over 1 hour and 10 minutes. The missile was tracked with the help of ground-based radars and its health parameters were monitored by telemetry stations from DRDO's ITR and LRDE (Electronics & Radar Development Establishment).[35] An Indian Air Force SEPECAT Jaguar chased the missile during its flight to capture the video of the flight.

The third test of the missile took place on 16 October 2015.[36] The missile was to be tested for its low flying capability. The missile in flight was supposed to be brought down from 4800 meters to 20 meters gradually and in stages. A Su-30MKI aircraft videotaped the flight.[37] A press release by the Ministry of Defence stated the missile was launched at 11:38 IST and all initial critical operations such as Booster ignition, Booster separation, Wing deployment and engine start were successfully executed and Nirbhay reached the desired Cruise Altitude.[38] Although the take off was successful after repeated disruptions of countdown, the missile crashed into the Bay of Bengal 11 minutes into its flight after covering only 128 km of its 1500 km range.[39]

The fourth test of the missile took place on 21 December 2016 from Launch Complex-III of Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Balasore in Odisha around 11:56 IST.[40][41] There has been no official word on the test outcome, however according to news reports this test was not successful. The booster engine in the first stage started working and lifted the missile off from its launcher. But the missile started veering dangerously towards one side in two minutes after lift-off and veered outside its safety corridor. Due to this, the test was aborted and the missile was remotely destroyed. A potential reason for the failure was described as a hardware problem with one of the missile's component.[42][43][44]

Fifth successful trial flight tested on November 07, 2017.

The fifth successful test of the missile took place on 7 November 2017 from Launch Complex-III of Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Balasore in Odisha around 11:20 IST. The flight test was a success and met all mission objectives. During the test, the missile traveled a distance of 647 km over a 50 minute duration, and was tracked by ground based radars and telemetry stations.[45][46] This trial of the missile used a turbojet engine instead of a turbofan engine[47]

Sixth missile trial from Integrated Test Range, Odisha on 15 April 2019.

The sixth successful trial took place on April 15, 2019. Traversing around 650 km, the test missile navigated way-points located at altitudes varying from 5 meters to 2.5 km. DRDO clarified that all mission objectives were met.[48] The test also validated the terrain hugging and the sea skimming capability of the missile.[49]

This trial completed the developmental trials of the missile. The next set of trials will be conducted as per the requirements of the Indian Armed Forces.[50]

Nirbhay project is now technically closed after completing six developmental trials. The next phase of tests will happen from April 2020 under a new name called Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile (ITCM). It will include Small Turbo Fan Engine (STFE) developed by Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) and a radio-frequency (RF) seeker from Research Centre Imarat (RCI). A separate air-launched variant and submarine-launched variant is under active development.[51]

Further Development

DRDO announced the completion of Nirbhay cruise missile development project on 6 February 2023, and also unveiled a number of new cruise and anti-ship missiles that are being developed in light of the lessons learned from Nirbhay.[52][53]

Variants

Base variant

The standard Nirbhay subsonic cruise missile is powered by a Russian NPO Saturn 36MT engine.

Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile (ITCM)

The Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile (ITCM) is based on Nirbhay missile but uses locally developed Small Turbo Fan Engine (STFE), also known as Manik Engine from Gas Turbine Research Establishment. The ITCM is a technology demonstrator programme to validate the capability of STFE, upgraded radio frequency (RF) seekers, and other subsystems. The main objective of this programme to achieve 100% indigenous contents in the cruise missile[54]

Trials

ITCM Missle Test with MANIK Small Turbo Fan Engine on 18 April 2024.

On 12 October 2020, the missile was test fired for the first time with indigenously developed GTRE STFE MANIK turbofan engine. The test was aborted after 8 minutes of launch.[55] As per DRDO, the missile deviated from predetermined flight path and was destroyed mid-air by mission control team.[56][57]

On 24 June 2021, Nirbhay was successfully test-fired from Launch Pad No. 3 of the Integrated Test Range at Chandipur.[58][59] The successful test was conducted with the GTRE Manik engine paving the way for a full range test.[60] On 11 August 2021, ITCM was test fired from Integrated Test Range (ITR). But it was a partial success. As per DRDO officials, MANIK engine performed well but the missile failed to achieve the desired range due to failure in control mechanism.[61][57]

On 28 October 2022, ITCM test fired from ITR failed due to a snag in the engine after separation of booster stage. This test included an upgraded radio frequency seeker.[57] On 21 February 2023, ITCM was test fired successfully. Fitted with an upgraded radio frequency seeker and Manik engine.[62][63]

On 18 April 2024, DRDO successfully test launched ITCM from the Integrated Test Range. The missile displayed very low altitude sea-skimming flight and used way point navigation to follow the intended course.[64] The MANIK Small Turbo Fan Engine has proven to be dependable, as demonstrated by this successful flight test. To provide improved and dependable performance, the missile was additionally outfitted with updated avionics and software. The missile was followed by one of IAF's Sukhoi Su-30MKI jet to study the performance of the missile.[65][66]

Submarine Launched Cruise Missile (SLCM)

The Submarine Launched Cruise Missile (SLCM) is a missile designed to launch from torpedo tubes of submarines. It is a compact version of Nirbhay missile. It has a stated range of 500 km, with a cruise length of 5.6 meter, diameter of 0.505 meter, all up weight of 975 kg and Mach 0.7 speed. It would feature INS/GPS navigation, with an RF seeker for terminal guidance. It comes with two variants: a Land attack cruise missile (LACM) and Anti-Ship Cruise Missile (ASCM).[67][52]

The missile shall be a part of the weapons package of Project 75(I) submarines.[68]

There are plans to extend the missile's range to 800 km. During flight, SLCMs follow a low altitude trajectory. They skim close to the surface to stay out of the radar systems' altitude range. The missile would be tested initially on Sindhughosh-class submarines.[69]

Trials

In February 2023, the maiden successful trail of SLCM was conducted by DRDO, which met all the mission objectives with a range of 402 km.[67][70]

In March 2024, another test is expected to be carried with a possible target range of 500 km.[68][71]

Long Range-Land Attack Cruise Missile (LR-LACM)

The LR-LACM, a longer range variant, will have a range up to 1,500 km. This missile would be operated by both the Indian Navy and Indian Air Force when development is complete. This missile would be compatible with the Universal Vertical Launch Module (UVLM) cells used for BrahMos.[72][67] The missile received Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) from Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) in August 2023. It will weigh a tonne, have a length of 6 m and diameter of 0.52 m. The missile is designed to have two tapering-chord fold-out wings with a span of 2.7 m. The missile would be equipped with Small Turbofan Engines (STFEs), upgraded radio frequency (RF) seekers, and other subsystems.[73]

Induction

Ministry of Defence (MoD) is considering a proposal from one of the service for the induction of Nirbhay and is at an advance stage of discussion. Once cleared, all the three services of Indian Armed Forces will have Nirbhay in their arsenal. Government already cleared the induction of Nirbhay in two services about two years ago.[74] Nirbhay, Pralay, Brahmos and Pinaka will become part of the Integrated Rocket Force (IRF), a separate entity from Strategic Forces Command (SFC).[75][76]

Operators

 India

See also

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