Land-based Weapon Complex System
BRAHMOS is a formidable weapon system with its unmatched speed, precision and devastating power. The Land based Weapon Complex comprises of four to six Mobile Autonomous Launchers (MAL) controlled by a Mobile Command Post (MCP), and a Mobile Replenishment Vehicle (MRV). MAL is an autonomous vehicle with its own communication, power supply and fire control system. Three BRAHMOS missiles placed in three independent containers are installed on the MAL. The missiles can be fired on three different targets or in a variety of other combinations near simultaneously. The land based version is also equipped with Inertial Navigation System and Global Positioning System.
Special Features of the Weapon System:
- Least number of ground systems
- Autonomous launcher that can launch three missiles on three different targets or in variety of other combinations near simultaneously
- Highly advanced command and control system capable of operating in C4I environment
- Modular configuration capable of adjusting itself to the user or equipment based on the threat perception
- Easy maintenance and longer life
- Air-conditioned control crew cabin with NBC protection
The Indian Army started inducting the land-attack BRAHMOS Block I version from 2007 after a series of successful test launches, proving the missile’s manoeuvring power, precision hitting of the target and other operative capabilities.
The advanced Block II version of the missile, with supersonic steep dive and target discrimation capabilities, has also been inducted after successful trials.
Launch Platform:
Mobile Autonomous Launcher (MAL) is a state-of-the-art Land based Weapon Complex. It consists of three missiles in ready to launch configuration housed in containers, most modern means of communications, Radar receivers for Target information, and an ultra advanced Fire Control System for coordinating the launch.
The indigenously-developed launcher is built on an all terrain high mobility TATRA vehicle. The missiles can be fired in single or salvo of 2 to 3 seconds within four minutes of receiving command, depending on the commanders input, it can fire towards a single or three different targets.
The containers maintain thermal conditioning of the canisters and ensure their interface with the launch beam. While being transported, these containers are carried in horizontal position. The canisters are brought to vertical position through the operation of a high pressure hydraulic system.
The MAL also consists of a 40 kVA diesel-driven generator to maintain power supply. Besides, a single phase UPS with battery backup of 15 minutes is fitted in the vehicle.
The launcher also has various communication equipments, each operating in different frequency bands. The launcher control system (LCS) functions in coordination with fire control system (FCS) and communication system. The MAL has a fully protected equipment cabin from where operations could be carried out in case of nuclear biological chemical (NBC) attack. It also has a containerised power supply system.
In a group of four, the Mobile Autonomous Launchers are controlled by Mobile Command Post (MCP).
The MCP provides telemetry and target data with instruction to each MAL for engaging specific targets or a single target. The command post assists in integrating the MAL into the network-centric battlefield area. It is equipped with all modern types of communication systems.
My priorities will be indigenisation of missile development in India, capacity building for larger production, meeting the production orders ahead of schedule to ensure delivery of missiles on time and to ensure different versions of BRAHMOS missiles to meet the aspirations and requirements of the defence force including Army, Navy & Air Force.
