On Sunday, India announced the successful test flight of its first long-range hypersonic missile, marking a significant advancement in the country’s military capabilities. The missile was tested off the coast of Odisha, from Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island, in the late hours of Saturday night.
Key Details of the Test
The missile, developed by DRDO, is designed to carry a range of payloads and can strike targets over 1,500 kilometres away. The flight test was meticulously tracked by multiple range systems stationed in various domains. Data from downrange ship stations confirmed the missile's successful terminal maneuvers, showcasing a high degree of accuracy.
Historic Achievement for India
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed pride in India's achievement, calling the test a “historic moment” that places the country among a select group of nations with such advanced military technology. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Singh highlighted the strategic importance of this development for India’s defense capabilities.
India has achieved a major milestone by successfully conducting flight trial of long range hypersonic missile from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, off-the-coast of Odisha. This is a historic moment and this significant achievement has put our country in the group of select nations… pic.twitter.com/jZzdTwIF6w— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) November 17, 2024
A Leap in Hypersonic Technology
India’s entry into the realm of hypersonic missile technology puts it in league with the United States, Russia, and China countries that have already developed fast-manoeuvring missiles that fly at lower altitudes, making them difficult to intercept. The latest missile test is a continuation of India’s efforts to advance its defense technology, which began in 2020 with the successful flight test of the Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator Vehicle (HSTDV). This test demonstrated critical technologies, including hypersonic maneuvering, scramjet propulsion, and the use of high-temperature materials essential for missile development.
Future Implications
The success of this test is expected to propel India further into the development of ultra-modern weapons capable of traveling at speeds six times the speed of sound (Mach 6), giving the Indian armed forces a significant edge in future defense strategies. The missile has now been integrated into the hypersonic vehicle, setting the stage for more advanced trials and developments.
With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
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