New Delhi: India’s Hypersonic Glide Missile program is moving ahead faster than its more complex air-breathing cruise missile counterpart, according to senior officials from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). This development highlights India’s growing strength in next-generation strike technology and its focus on building advanced hypersonic weapons.
The announcement was made by DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat at a recent national security forum, confirming that India is making steady and strategic progress in hypersonic capabilities.
DRDO Confirms Faster Progress in Indigenous Hypersonic Glide Missile
India is focusing strongly on hypersonic weapons to enhance its strategic defence capabilities. DRDO has confirmed that the hypersonic glide missile, also known as Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LR-AShM), has reached an advanced development stage.
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The first test trials of this system are expected soon. Compared to other hypersonic systems, this missile is progressing faster due to relatively simpler engineering requirements.
What Makes Hypersonic Glide Missiles Different?
Hypersonic weapons travel at speeds above Mach 5 (five times the speed of sound). There are two main types:
1. Hypersonic Glide Missile
- Uses a boost-glide mechanism
- Rocket boosts it to high altitude
- Then it glides unpowered towards the target
- Can maneuver unpredictably
2. Hypersonic Cruise Missile
- Uses scramjet engines
- Requires continuous air-breathing propulsion
- Much more complex to develop
The glide missile avoids the complexity of scramjet engines, making it faster to develop.
Speed, Heat, and Engineering Challenges
The hypersonic glide vehicle operates at speeds around Mach 5 or higher. At such speeds:
- Extreme heat is generated (up to 2000°C)
- Strong aerodynamic forces act on the vehicle
- Precision guidance systems are required
DRDO has made progress in developing heat-resistant materials, avionics, and control systems, which are critical for success.
Why Indigenous Hypersonic Glide Missile Development Is Faster
According to DRDO, glide missiles are progressing faster because:
- They do not need continuous propulsion
- Scramjet technology is highly complex and still evolving
- Boost-glide systems are relatively easier to test and deploy
This allows India to build an operational hypersonic capability sooner.
What is the Importance of Indigenous Hypersonic Glide Missile
The hypersonic glide missile offers several advantages:
- Difficult to detect and intercept by enemy radar
- Can change trajectory mid-flight
- Reduces enemy reaction time
- Effective against modern air defence systems
This makes it a powerful addition to India’s defence arsenal, especially for naval and long-range strike missions.
DRDO’s Step-by-Step Development Strategy
India is following a practical approach:
- First, develop and deploy hypersonic glide missiles
- Build operational experience
- Continue research on scramjet-powered cruise missiles
This phased strategy ensures faster capability building while managing technological risks.
Past Achievements Strengthening the Program
India’s hypersonic journey includes:
- Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator Vehicle (HSTDV) test in 2020
- Ongoing research in materials and propulsion systems
- Expansion of indigenous defence technologies
These achievements are now helping accelerate the glide missile program.
