IAF and Indian Navy Induct Rampage Missile for Enhanced Strike Capabilities

The Indian Air Force (IAF) and Indian Navy have bolstered their combat capabilities with the induction of the Rampage long-range supersonic air-to-ground missile, previously utilized by the Israeli Air Force in operations against Iranian targets. The missile, known as the High-Speed Low Drag-Mark 2 within the Indian Air Force, offers a striking range of up to 250 kilometers.

Integration and Fleet Enhancement

The Rampage missile has been successfully integrated into the IAF’s fleet of Russian-origin aircraft, including the Su-30 MKI, MiG-29, and Jaguar fighters. Similarly, the Indian Navy has welcomed the Rampage missiles into its arsenal, particularly for the MiG-29K naval fighter jets, enhancing its capability to engage high-value targets such as communication centers and radar stations.

Procurement Under Emergency Powers

Procurement of the Rampage missiles was facilitated under emergency powers granted by the Defence Ministry to equip the armed forces with critical weapons following the 2020 standoff with China. These missiles offer a longer range than the Spice-2000s, previously used in the Balakot air strikes in 2019.

Integration with Su-30 MKI and Future Prospects

The successful integration of Rampage missiles with the Su-30 MKI significantly enhances the firepower of the Russian aircraft fleet. This integration enables the firing of multiple long-range air-to-ground missiles, including the BrahMos supersonic missiles, with a strike range exceeding 400 kilometers. Additionally, there are considerations for potential production of Rampage missiles under the Make in India program.

Other Recent Developments

Apart from the Rampage missiles, recent testing of the ROCKS (Crystal Maze-2) missile in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands territory demonstrated the IAF’s commitment to enhancing its capabilities through the acquisition of cutting-edge weaponry.

About the Rampage Missile

The Rampage missile, developed by Israel Aerospace Industries and Israeli Military Industries Systems, is a long-range, supersonic, air-to-ground, seekerless precision strike missile designed for destroying high-quality, well-protected targets such as communication and command centers, air force bases, maintenance centers, and infrastructure. Key features include its supersonic speed, over 190 miles striking range, GPS/INS navigation with anti-jamming capabilities, and all-weather operability.