The Indian Air Force recently conducted a highly successful test firing of an air-launched ballistic missile, marking a significant milestone in its operational capabilities. The missile tested, known as the ROCKS or Crystal Maze 2 missile, is of Israeli origin and represents a substantial leap in India’s aerial strike capabilities. One of the standout features of this missile is its ability to effectively engage targets at distances exceeding 250 kilometers, showcasing its long-range precision strike capabilities.
The test firing took place in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, providing a realistic operational environment for the trial. The missile was launched from a Su-30 MKI fighter jet, demonstrating the seamless integration of advanced weaponry with frontline aircraft in the Indian Air Force’s fleet.
Crystal Maze 2 is a distinct advancement over its predecessor, Crystal Maze 1, which was previously inducted into the Indian Air Force. This new iteration of the missile is categorized as an extended stand-off range air-to-surface missile, designed to engage high-value stationary and relocatable targets with remarkable accuracy. Such targets could include long-range radars and sophisticated air defense systems deployed by potential adversaries.
One of the strategic advantages of the Crystal Maze 2 missile is its effectiveness even in GPS-denied environments, a capability that was notably crucial during conflict scenarios like the Kargil War. Additionally, the missile’s design allows it to penetrate areas protected by advanced air defense systems, further enhancing India’s deterrence and defense capabilities.
The successful test firing represents a key step in India’s efforts to bolster its indigenous defense capabilities and reduce dependency on imports. The acquisition and potential production of Crystal Maze 2 missiles under the Make in India initiative signify a strategic move towards self-reliance and technological advancement in the defense sector, aligning with the country’s broader defense modernization objectives.