India has achieved a significant milestone in defense technology by successfully testing its first long-range hypersonic missile, capable of exceeding speeds of Mach 8 and delivering payloads over 1,500 kilometers. This advancement positions India among a select group of nations with such capabilities and marks a pivotal shift in its strategic defense posture.
Unprecedented Speed and Range
The hypersonic missile, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), was launched from Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha on November 16, 2024. Traveling at approximately 3 kilometers per second, the missile successfully executed terminal maneuvers and impacted its target with high precision.
Technological Distinction
While countries like Russia, China, and the United States have developed hypersonic weapons, India’s missile is distinguished by its extended range and speed. Former DRDO chairman G. Satheesh Reddy emphasized that India’s hypersonic missile is unique in its combination of speed, range, precision, and low detectability, making it a significant asset for the Armed Forces.
Types of Hypersonic Missiles
Hypersonic missiles are categorized into two types:
- Hypersonic Glide Vehicles (HGVs): Launched via rocket boosters, these vehicles glide towards their targets at high speeds after booster separation.
- Hypersonic Cruise Missiles: Powered by scramjet engines, these missiles maintain hypersonic speeds throughout their flight and exhibit high maneuverability.
India’s newly tested missile incorporates features of both categories, enabling in-flight maneuverability to evade detection and interception. elopment and Future Prospects**
The missile was developed by DRDO’s laboratories, including the Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex in Hyderabad, in collaboration with industry partners. This success underscores India’s growing self-reliance in advanced defense technologies. Additionally, India is working on the second-generation BrahMos missile, a hypersonic cruise missile with a range exceeding 1,500 kilometers, in partnership with Russia.
Strategic Implications
The development of long-range hypersonic missiles enhancnce capabilities and strengthens its defense posture amid regional security challenges. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the test as a historic achievement, placing India among nations with critical and advanced military technologies.
Conclusion
India’s successful test of its first long-range hypersonic missile represents a significant leap in defense technology, bolstering its strategic capabilities and reinforcing its position in landscape. This achievement reflects India’s commitment to advancing its indigenous defense technologies and enhancing national security.
