<h4>Introduction to RuDRaM-II</h4><p>The <strong>RuDRaM-II</strong> is an advanced <strong>air-launched missile system</strong> developed indigenously by the <strong>Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)</strong>.</p><p>It was successfully <strong>flight-tested</strong> from a <strong>Sukhoi-30 MKI fighter jet</strong>, demonstrating its operational capabilities.</p><h4>Key Features and Capabilities</h4><p>This missile system is <strong>solid-propelled</strong> and specifically designed for <strong>air-to-surface operations</strong>, targeting various ground-based threats.</p><p>Its primary role is to effectively <strong>neutralise diverse types of enemy assets</strong>, significantly enhancing India's offensive and defensive capabilities.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p>The <strong>RuDRaM-II</strong> is expected to act as a <strong>‘force multiplier’</strong>, playing a vital role in strengthening <strong>India’s air security</strong> and overall <strong>defence preparedness</strong>.</p></div><h4>Technical Specifications</h4><div class='info-box'><ul><li><strong>Range:</strong> 300 kilometres</li><li><strong>Speed:</strong> Up to <strong>Mach 5.5</strong></li><li><strong>Payload:</strong> 200 kilograms</li><li><strong>Detection Capability:</strong> Can detect <strong>enemy radio frequencies</strong> and <strong>signals from radars</strong> from over <strong>100 km</strong>.</li></ul></div><h4>Testing and Evaluation</h4><p>The missile's performance during its flight test was rigorously evaluated using advanced range tracking instruments.</p><p>These instruments included sophisticated <strong>electro-optical systems</strong>, <strong>radar</strong>, and various <strong>telemetry stations</strong> to ensure precise data collection.</p><h4>Strategic Importance</h4><p>The <strong>RuDRaM-II</strong> has the potential to replace <strong>Russia’s Kh-31 missile</strong>, which is currently in use with <strong>India's Sukhoi fighter jets</strong>.</p><div class='exam-tip-box'><p>Understanding the replacement potential of <strong>RuDRaM-II</strong> highlights <strong>India's growing indigenisation efforts</strong> in defence, a critical aspect for <strong>UPSC Mains GS-III</strong> topics on national security and technology.</p></div>