Indian Navy Showcases Strength: INS Surat Successfully Test-Fires MR-SAM and Concludes AIKEYME Exercise

In a powerful display of defence readiness and technological self-reliance, the Indian Navy has successfully conducted a test-firing of the Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MR-SAM) system from its latest guided missile destroyer, INS Surat, in the Arabian Sea. The test was carried out on Thursday, just two days after the brutal terrorist attack in the scenic Baisaran Valley of Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir.

Indian Navy ship sailing in the sea. (Representational)(REUTERS)

According to reports from ANI, the missile test also preceded the scheduled surface-to-surface missile testing by the Pakistan Navy in the same region. The MR-SAM system, designed to neutralize a range of aerial threats including low-flying and surface-to-surface missiles, represents a major leap in India’s air defence capabilities. (This part is taken from ANI)

Sharing the development on social media platform X, the Indian Navy posted: “#IndianNavy’s latest indigenous guided missile destroyer #INSSurat successfully carried out a precision cooperative engagement of a sea-skimming target, marking another milestone in strengthening our defence capabilities.” (Official X posts by the Indian Navy)

This successful test highlights the Navy’s enhanced focus on indigenous defence technology and operational superiority. As noted in the official statement, the MR-SAM test reflects India's growing proficiency in warship design and manufacturing, aligning with the nation’s broader Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) mission in defence production.

About INS Surat

INS Surat is the fourth and final vessel under the P15B Guided Missile Destroyer Project. Among the largest and most advanced destroyers globally, it boasts 75% indigenous content. The warship is equipped with state-of-the-art weapon-sensor systems and advanced network-centric warfare capabilities, cementing its status as a formidable asset in the Indian Navy's fleet. (This part is taken from Mint)

AIKEYME Exercise Successfully Concluded

In addition to the MR-SAM test, the Indian Navy also marked the successful completion of the maiden edition of the AIKEYME exercise. Naval ships INS Chennai and INS Kesari sailed from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on April 19, following the conclusion of the joint exercise aimed at enhancing maritime cooperation and interoperability. (This part is taken from Hindustan Times)

The Indian Navy stated on X: “Marking the successful completion of the maiden edition of #AIKEYME exercise, the Indian Naval Ships #INSChennai and #INSKesari sailed from Dar es Salaam on #19Apr 25.” (Official X posts by the Indian Navy)

The send-off ceremony was attended by Rear Admiral AR Hassan, Navy Commander of the Tanzania People's Defence Force (TPDF), and Commodore Agyapal Singh, Defence Attaché of India. The closing event included a detailed debrief, cultural exchange, and speeches by dignitaries including Major General Gaguti, Chief of Personnel, TPDF, who served as the Chief Guest.

Conclusion

From the successful firing of the MR-SAM by INS Surat to the fruitful conclusion of the AIKEYME naval exercise, the Indian Navy continues to reinforce its operational readiness, indigenous capabilities, and global partnerships. These events underscore India’s unwavering commitment to national security, technological self-reliance, and regional stability in the maritime domain.