New Delhi: DRDO hypersonic anti-ship missile test marks a major milestone in the country’s defence capabilities. India has successfully tested the Phase-II version of its long-range hypersonic anti-ship missile off the Odisha coast.
The test was conducted by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and highlights India’s rapid progress in advanced missile technology. This development strengthens India’s naval strike power and places it among a select group of nations with hypersonic weapon capabilities.
Details of DRDO Hypersonic Anti-Ship Missile Test
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) carried out the test from a defence facility located along the Odisha coast.
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This Phase-II trial of the Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LR-AShM) is a major step in India’s indigenous weapons programme. The missile successfully followed its planned trajectory and met all mission objectives.
What are the Features of the Long-Range Hypersonic Anti-Ship Missile
1. Long Range Strike Capability
- The missile can hit targets at a range of around 1,500 km.
- It is designed to target both stationary and moving enemy ships at sea.
2. Hypersonic Speed
- The missile travels at speeds above Mach 5, making interception extremely difficult.
- Some reports indicate speeds close to Mach 10 during flight.
3. Advanced Guidance System
- Uses modern navigation systems including INS and satellite guidance.
- Capable of high precision strikes with direct hit accuracy.
How the Missile Works
The LR-AShM uses a two-stage solid rocket motor.
- First stage: Provides initial boost.
- Second stage: Accelerates the missile to hypersonic speed.
- After boost phase, it enters a glide phase and follows a quasi-ballistic path.
This glide vehicle design allows the missile to perform evasive manoeuvres, making it very hard to detect and intercept.
Designed for Indian Navy
The missile has been developed to meet the operational needs of the Indian Navy.
- Can be launched from land-based platforms.
- Useful for coastal defence and long-range maritime strikes.
- Can carry different payload configurations.
What is the Importance of DRDO Hypersonic Anti-Ship Missile Test
Strengthening Naval Power
This missile enhances India’s ability to neutralize high-value enemy ships, including aircraft carriers, from long distances.
Boost to Indigenous Defence
The successful test shows India’s growing capability in building advanced weapons using domestic technology.
Entry into Elite Hypersonic Club
Only a few countries have operational hypersonic weapons. This test positions India among them.
Complement to Existing Missile Systems
The LR-AShM works alongside other systems like cruise and ballistic missiles.
It fills a critical gap by offering:
- High speed
- Long range
- High manoeuvrability
This makes India’s missile arsenal more balanced and powerful.
Impact on Indo-Pacific Security
The successful test strengthens India’s strategic position in the Indo-Pacific region.
- Improves maritime security
- Acts as a strong deterrent
- Enhances defence readiness
This development is important given increasing naval competition in the region.
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