On Nov 17, 2024, India marked a significant milestone in its military capabilities by testing a long-range hypersonic missile. The test was conducted from Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island off Odisha’s eastern coast, with the missile demonstrating terminal maneuvers and precise impact accuracy.
The weapon system, developed through collaboration between the state-run Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and industry partners, is designed to carry various payloads and has a range exceeding 930 miles. This achievement positions India alongside other global powers such as China, Russia, and the United States in the development of hypersonic weapons technology.
Hypersonic weapons are defined by their ability to travel at speeds between 5 and 25 times the speed of sound, equivalent to approximately 1 to 5 miles per second.
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh celebrated the test as a “historic achievement” emphasizing its significance in establishing India’s position among nations with advanced military capabilities.
Earlier this year, in February 2024, IIT Kanpur inaugurated the country’s first hypersonic test facility, capable of testing cruise missiles with speeds up to 6 miles/s. This facility, funded by the Department of Science and Technology and Aeronautical Research and Development Board under the DRDO, will play a vital role in simulating hypersonic conditions for future space and defense projects, including the BrahMos-II program.
This advancement in hypersonic technology not only strengthens India’s military capabilities but also enhances its strategic position in the region, particularly given the global race for developing advanced long-range missile systems.
