Next Generation Maritime Mobile Coastal Batteries (Long Range)

April 4, 2023

The defence ministry recently signed a deal worth over Rs 1,700 crore for the procurement of the Next Generation Maritime Mobile Coastal Batteries (Long Range), commonly known as NGMMCB (LR). This deal, in combination with the BrahMos missiles, will strengthen Indian Navy’s maritime strike capabilities along the coast.

What is the NGMMCB (LR)?

The Next Generation Maritime Mobile Coastal Batteries (Long Range) is a weapon system designed to be mobile in the battlefield. It will be deployed along the Indian coast. The NGMMCB (LR) is equipped with supersonic BrahMos missiles, which can be used to target enemy platforms operating close to the Indian coast. This weapon system will significantly enhance the Indian Navy’s maritime strike capability.

Make in India Initiative

The NGMMCB (LR) is part of the ‘Make in India’ initiative, which is aimed at encouraging domestic manufacturing and production and achieve self reliance. The NGMMCB (LR) is being developed and produced indigenously by BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited (BAPL). This initiative will not only boost the Indian Navy’s defence capabilities but will also boost the country’s economy.

Delivery Schedule

The delivery of the NGMMCBs is scheduled to commence from 2027. Once delivered, the NGMMCB (LR) will be deployed from Mumbai to Gujarat. This weapon system will be linked to the Coastal Radar chain and various other systems, as well as a multi-tiered patrol and surveillance mechanism.

Benefits of the NGMMCB (LR)

The long-range subsonic cruise missiles, installed on hostile warships, can be used to launch attacks on ports and other naval installations. The NGMMCB (LR) batteries will be useful in repelling such coordinated sea attacks by forcing hostile warships to stay away from the coastline. Sea-skimming missiles that are launched from warships are difficult to detect when launched from near the cost. However, the NGMMCB (LR) batteries will force hostile warships to stay away from the coastline. This enables the early launch and interception of sea-skimming missiles.

The Coastal Radar Chain

The Coastal Radar chain linked to NGMMCB (LR) will boost India’s coastal defence capabilities. The Indian Navy’s existing Mobile Missile Coastal Battery (MMCB) Squadrons currently rely on older Soviet-era SSMs. The NGMMCB (LR) will significantly enhance the capabilities of these squadrons.

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