The Indian Army’s White Tiger Division, part of the Southern Command, has successfully demonstrated its operational readiness and technical proficiency through a live missile-firing exercise at the Gopalpur Seawards Firing Ranges. In a commendable performance, the division’s Air Defence warriors achieved direct hits on all Maneuverable Expendable Aerial Targets (MEAT) utilizing the Soviet-designed OSA-AK missile system, significantly bolstering India’s air defense capabilities.
Conducted by the Sudarshan Chakra Corps, the exercise underscored the precision and skill of the Army Air Defence (AAD) personnel. The OSA-AK, recognized by its NATO designation SA-8 Gecko, is a low-altitude, short-range surface-to-air missile system that has been integral to India’s air defense strategy since its introduction. This missile system, initially developed in the 1960s and adopted by the Soviet Union in 1972, is noted for its mobility and versatility, allowing it to adapt to various combat situations. Enhancements to the system, including global adaptations like Ukraine’s “FrankenSAM,” which integrates modern R-73 air-to-air missiles, demonstrate the platform’s continued relevance in contemporary warfare.
The Gopalpur Seawards Firing Ranges, situated in Odisha, serves as a premier testing ground for the Indian military, featuring a 75 km range and an electro-optical tracking and assessment system for comprehensive firing evaluations. This facility has a history of significant military testing milestones, including the recent January 2025 trials of the Bhargavastra micro-missiles aimed at addressing drone threats. Additionally, the Army Air Defence College located in Gopalpur plays a crucial role in training air defense personnel, preparing them to counter evolving aerial threats.
The Southern Command highlighted this achievement on social media platform X, stating, “Air Defence Warriors of the #WhiteTigerDivision showcased exceptional skill and precision during the OSA-AK missile firing at #Gopalpur Seawards Firing Ranges. With all direct hits on Maneuverable Expandable Aerial Targets (MEAT), they demonstrated unparalleled technical expertise and operational readiness.” Accompanying the post were images of the missile launch, the OSA-AK system in action, and a group photo of the involved personnel, capturing their pride and camaraderie.
The successful execution of the exercise has garnered praise from the public, with comments expressing congratulations and admiration such as “Great achievement. Heartiest Congratulations to Varun and his team,” and “Simply fantastic,” reflecting widespread appreciation for the Indian Army’s dedication. This event highlights the Corps of Army Air Defence’s enduring commitment to national security, a legacy that has evolved since its establishment in 1939. As the division continues to modernize and adapt to contemporary challenges, this demonstration at Gopalpur not only validates its capabilities but also emphasizes the Indian Army’s ongoing efforts to sustain a robust air defense network, ensuring the nation’s skies remain secure against potential threats.
