CURRENT AFFAIRS
CURRENT AFFAIRS
Description
In a significant military move, Operation Sindoor reportedly saw the use of SCALP missiles launched from Indian Rafale fighter jets to target high-value terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). This development highlights the strategic capabilities of the Indian Air Force (IAF) in precision deep-strike missions, leveraging cutting-edge missile technology.
About SCALP Missile
The SCALP missile, also known as Storm Shadow in the United Kingdom, is a long-range, air-launched cruise missile known for its exceptional precision and destructive power. It is designed for deep penetration strikes against fortified, high-value, and stationary targets, making it a crucial asset for modern air forces engaged in strategic strike operations.
Development and Deployment
Origins - The SCALP missile, officially named "Système de Croisière Autonome à Longue Portée" in French, which translates to "Long-Range Autonomous Cruise System," was jointly developed by MBDA in collaboration with the United Kingdom and France. It represents a critical component of European air-launched strike capabilities.
Global Operators - In addition to India, the SCALP missile is in active service with the air forces of France, the United Kingdom, Egypt, Italy, Greece, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), reflecting its widespread adoption and strategic importance.
Key Features Of SCALP Missile
Long-Range Strike Capability - The SCALP missile has an operational range of approximately 500 kilometers, enabling it to strike targets deep within enemy territory without exposing the launch platform to hostile air defenses.
High-Penetration Warhead - Weighing around 1,300 kg, the SCALP carries a 450 kg conventional warhead, specifically designed to penetrate hardened bunkers and fortified structures, making it highly effective against command centers, military bunkers, and key infrastructure.
Precision Navigation and Targeting - The missile employs a sophisticated guidance system, combining GPS (Global Positioning System), INS (Inertial Navigation System), and terrain-following radar for mid-flight navigation. As it approaches its target, the SCALP uses an infrared terminal guidance system that compares real-time imagery with preloaded target data, ensuring high strike accuracy and minimizing collateral damage.
Stealth and Survivability - Flying at subsonic speeds (approximately Mach 0.8) and at low altitudes, the SCALP is designed to evade radar detection and enemy air defenses, enhancing its survivability in contested airspace. The missile's aerodynamic shape and low radar cross-section further reduce its detectability, making it a formidable deep-strike weapon.
Adaptability and All-Weather Capability - The SCALP is engineered to function in a wide range of weather conditions, ensuring operational flexibility for air forces. Its robust design allows it to be used effectively in diverse combat scenarios.
Integration With Indian Rafale Jets
The Indian Air Force (IAF) integrates the SCALP missile with its fleet of Rafale multirole fighter jets, significantly enhancing its long-range precision strike capabilities. The Rafale's advanced avionics and targeting systems are well-suited to deploying the SCALP, providing the IAF with a powerful tool for high-risk missions deep within hostile territory.
The combination of Rafale jets and SCALP missiles allows the IAF to project power over long distances, engage critical targets with high precision, and maintain a strategic advantage in complex air combat scenarios. This capability is particularly significant for missions requiring deep strikes against hardened military installations and high-value assets.
Conclusion
As tensions in the region remain high, the deployment of SCALP missiles as part of Operation Sindoor underscores India's commitment to maintaining a credible and technologically advanced defense posture. It also highlights the growing importance of long-range strike capabilities in modern warfare, where precision and survivability are critical to mission success.
Welcome to Notopedia.com, your free learning platform that caters to the diverse needs of students and aspirants across a spectrum of entrance exams and educational endeavors. Whether you're preparing for highly anticipated exams like CAT, NEET, JEE Main, or bank job vacancies, our platform offers a wealth of resources to guide you towards success. Stay up-to-date with the latest exam dates, announcements, and results for various government recruitment exams, including SSC CGL, CHSL, NDA, and UPSC. Explore comprehensive study materials, sample papers, and exam patterns to hone your skills and boost your confidence. From important dates like CBSE Class 10 and 12 date sheets to exam-specific information like JEE Main application form date, we cover it all. Notopedia.com is your go-to source for everything from admissions and admit cards to scholarships and college information. Whether you're aiming for a career in defense, government, banking, or higher education, our free learning platform equips you with the knowledge and resources you need to excel. Join us in your educational journey and unlock a world of opportunities, guidance, and comprehensive support.
For more Updates and Information - Visit Notopedia's Bulletin Board
For Latest Sarkari Jobs - Visit Notopedia's Sarkari Jobs Section
For access to more than 20,000 Colleges - Visit Notopedia's College Section
For School Studies and Exams Preparation across 14 Boards - Visit Notopedia's School Section
For Comprehensive Preparation of Sarkari Job Exams - Visit Notopedia's Sarkari Exams Section
