India has made significant strides in its defense capabilities with the successful test-firing of its first long-range hypersonic missile. Conducted on November 16, 2024, by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), this test marks India's entry among elite nations possessing hypersonic technology, including the United States, Russia, and China. The missile was launched from Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island, situated off the coast of Odisha, and is reported to have the capacity to carry various payloads over distances exceeding 1,500 kilometers.
The successful trial is not just about achieving technological excellence. It aims at reinforcing India’s military muscle, particularly amid rising tensions with neighboring China. Notably, only countries with advanced military capabilities, such as the U.S., Russia, and China, have developed hypersonic systems previously. The speed of hypersonic missiles, characterized by velocities exceeding five times the speed of sound, presents unique challenges to current air defense systems, rendering them nearly ineffective against potential threats.
According to defense analysts, the development of this missile technology will bolster India's strategic deterrent capabilities against adversaries. The missile's ability to fly at lower altitudes, along with its maneuverability, actively complicates detection and interception efforts by enemy systems. The Defense Minister, Rajnath Singh, hailed this achievement as monumental for India’s military strategy, emphasizing its role as a deterrent against hostile powers.
This test also reflects the culmination of years of research and development by the DRDO. The organization has been pursuing hypersonic technology since its initial Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator Vehicle (HSTDV) test back in 2020, which successfully validated key technologies necessary for hypersonic movement. The recent test has not only confirmed the missile’s capabilities but has also demonstrated effective terminal maneuvers and accurate hit precision, as recorded by tracking systems deployed across various domains.
Lt. Gen. (Retd.) P.R. Shankar, who previously served as Director-General of Artillery for the Indian Army, underscored the significance of this test. He noted it puts India among the few nations capable of indigenously developing such advanced military technology. With rising military influences from China, India’s hypersonic capabilities serve as a frontline defense enhancement, signaling its intent to remain competitive and secure within its region.
Historically, the development of hypersonic missiles can trace back to the early 20th century, with modern versions becoming prominent during and after World War II. The United States and Russia have primarily dominated the space, yet recent campaigns have prompted countries like India to expedite their advancements. Notably, hypersonic systems have been thrust back to the spotlight with Russia’s use of such missiles during operations against Ukraine, marking their first strategic application in modern warfare.
The recent Indian test not only emphasizes advancements within its defense strategy but also aims to stand resilient against the array of missile systems launched by adversaries. While existing threats remain, the focus now shifts to developing countermeasures against any potential utilization of these sophisticated hypersonic systems by rival states.
Experts indicate there’s still progress to be made concerning missile defense against hypersonic threats. Several nations are now under increased pressure to develop capable systems to defend against hypersonic maneuvers, highlighting the increasing relevance and urgency surrounding this technology on the global stage. Diversified defense costs are also expected as nations compete to maintain or advance their technological edge.
Interestingly, Indian defense agencies are also exploring partnerships within the private sector to facilitate advancements, nurturing innovation and spearheading research. For example, the Indian deep-tech start-up HTNP Industries has been focusing on hypersonic technologies with expected collaborations to develop operational prototypes which could bolster India's strategic defense posture significantly.
India’s hypersonic missile project could potentially see significant developments such as BrahMos-II, which is anticipated to be operational by 2028, following extensive testing. This missile, aimed at various applications including anti-ship operations, could redefine naval warfare frameworks within the Indian military.
The recent successful hypersonic missile test demonstrates India’s commitment to advancing its military capabilities amid growing global tensions. With heightened focus on research and testing, the pressure on rival forces will increase as India fortifies its position strategically and militarily. Overall, this technological endeavor is not only pivotal for national security but solidifies India’s identity as a key player on the global defense stage.
