Missile Programme — Set 13
Defence GK · मिसाइल कार्यक्रम · Questions 121–130 of 160
The BrahMos extended range (ER) variant uses what change to extend its range?
Correct Answer: D. Reducing the warhead weight to carry more fuel
The BrahMos Extended Range (ER) variant achieves greater range by reducing the warhead weight (from 200-300 kg to less than 300 kg) and optimising the fuel use. This increases range from 290 km to approximately 450-500 km. The aerodynamic profile and engine optimisation also contribute to extended range.
India's DRDO-developed Multi-Mode Seeker for BrahMos next-generation is designed to:
Correct Answer: B. Use both Active Radar Homing and Infrared guidance
India is developing a Multi-Mode Seeker (MMS) for next-generation BrahMos that combines Active Radar Homing (ARH) with Infrared (IR) imaging guidance. This allows the missile to function even when radar is jammed or in radar-absorbent material environments. The MMS improves terminal accuracy significantly.
India's Integrated Test Range (ITR) for missile testing is located at:
Correct Answer: B. Chandipur-on-Sea (Abdul Kalam Island), Odisha
India's Integrated Test Range (ITR) is located at Chandipur-on-Sea and Abdul Kalam Island (formerly Wheeler Island) off the Odisha coast. It is managed by DRDO. The ITR has sophisticated tracking radars, telemetry stations, and range safety systems for conducting long-range missile tests over the Bay of Bengal.
The Rudram-2 anti-radiation missile under development is expected to have what range?
Correct Answer: B. 250-300 km
Rudram-2 is the extended-range version of Rudram-1, with an expected range of approximately 250-300 km. This extends India's ability to destroy enemy air defence radars from greater stand-off distances, reducing risk to aircraft. Rudram-2 development was initiated after the success of Rudram-1 testing.
What is unique about the Sagarika (K-15) SLBM compared to land-based missiles in terms of launch profile?
Correct Answer: B. It launches vertically from an underwater submarine
K-15 Sagarika is launched vertically from an underwater submarine (from the SSBN's vertical launch tubes while submerged). This underwater launch capability is what gives India's nuclear second-strike capability — an enemy cannot destroy the submarine (and therefore the missiles) even with a full nuclear first strike on India's land-based forces.
What is the circular error probable (CEP) of Agni-V, indicating its accuracy?
Correct Answer: B. Less than 10-40 metres
Agni-V has a reported Circular Error Probable (CEP) of approximately 10-40 metres — extremely high accuracy for a 5,000+ km range ICBM. CEP is the radius of a circle within which 50% of warheads would land. This accuracy is achieved through Ring Laser Gyroscope INS and terminal guidance.
The integration of BrahMos on the Su-30 MKI required structural modifications. Approximately how many aircraft were modified?
Correct Answer: B. 40 aircraft
Approximately 40 Su-30 MKI aircraft were modified to carry the BrahMos-A air-launched cruise missile. The modification involves structural reinforcement of the fuselage centreline pylon and integration of the weapon management system. 42 aircraft were planned for modification in the first batch.
India's STAR (Strike Tactical Autonomous Research vehicle) programme relates to which capability?
Correct Answer: B. Long-range autonomous unmanned combat aircraft
India is developing autonomous and semi-autonomous unmanned combat air vehicles (UCAV) as part of its advanced R&D programmes. DRDO's Ghatak stealth UCAV and similar projects fall under this category. These represent India's next-generation strike capability beyond manned aircraft.
Which Indian missile is specifically designed for destroying bunkers and hardened targets?
Correct Answer: B. BrahMos (bunker-buster variant)
BrahMos has a bunker-buster warhead variant that can penetrate hardened underground facilities before detonating. The BRAHMOS' supersonic speed and heavy warhead (200-300 kg) give it significant penetration capability against reinforced bunkers. This variant was reportedly used in testing against hardened targets.
The Advanced Air Defence (AAD) interceptor missile is also known by which name?
Correct Answer: A. Ashwin
Advanced Air Defence (AAD) interceptor is also known as 'Ashwin' (after the Ashwin twins of Hindu mythology). It operates in the endo-atmospheric layer (15-30 km altitude) to intercept incoming ballistic missiles during their terminal phase. Ashwin uses an active radio-frequency seeker for terminal guidance.