India recently showcased its new Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LR-AShM) during the Republic Day parade on January 26, signaling that it’s almost ready for service with the Indian Navy. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), this hypersonic weapon is designed to hit both stationary and moving targets.
The LR-AShM stands out for its speed, reaching up to Mach 10, which classifies it as a hypersonic missile. It has a two-stage design, with the first stage using solid propellant to launch it to altitude. The glide phase follows, where the missile can navigate towards its target with high speed and maneuverability, thanks to advanced sensors and avionics.
According to the Ministry of Defence (MoD), the missile will be part of a coastal battery system. This system will engage enemy radars, making it effective against ground and naval threats. By flying at low altitudes, the LR-AShM can avoid detection until it’s time to strike.
DRDO has a history of developing advanced missile technologies. Their successful trials in November 2016 indicated plans for hypersonic capabilities for the Navy, Army, and Air Force, with ranges exceeding 1,500 km. Recent developments also include progress in air-breathing propulsion systems. For example, a significant ground test in January showed that their scramjet combustor could operate for over twelve minutes, marking a leap in hypersonic research.
As nations race to advance their military technologies, hypersonic weapons are becoming a hot topic. A recent report from the Center for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments highlights that over 30 countries are developing hypersonic missile programs, which shows a clear global trend. Experts assert these technologies will reshuffle defense strategies as they become more critical in future conflicts.
The LR-AShM is not just a technical achievement but also reflects India’s growing emphasis on self-reliance in defense. As these developments unfold, keeping an eye on advances in hypersonics could provide insightful perspectives on global military dynamics.
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