SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to significantly enhance its offensive capabilities with the integration of the BrahMos Next Generation (NG) missile, a lighter and more advanced variant of the renowned BrahMos supersonic cruise missile. Designed to be fitted onto aircraft such as the MiG-29, Mirage 2000, and the indigenous Tejas, the BrahMos NG is poised to become the IAF’s primary deterrent weapon, bolstering India’s aerial strike capabilities.
The BrahMos NG, developed by BrahMos Aerospace—a joint venture between India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyeniya—represents a significant technological leap. Weighing approximately 1.3 tonnes, the NG variant is notably lighter than its predecessor, the BrahMos-A, which weighs around 2.5 tonnes. This reduced weight makes it compatible with a wider range of aircraft, including the lightweight Tejas, a cornerstone of India’s indigenous defense program.
The integration of BrahMos NG onto the MiG-29, Mirage 2000, and Tejas will provide the IAF with unparalleled flexibility and firepower. The missile’s compact design retains the supersonic speed (up to Mach 2.8), precision, and versatility of the original BrahMos, enabling it to strike both land and naval targets with devastating accuracy. Its ability to be launched from multiple platforms enhances the IAF’s operational reach, making it a formidable deterrent against potential adversaries.
The BrahMos NG is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening India’s strategic posture. As the IAF’s primary deterrent weapon, it will offer enhanced strike capabilities against high-value targets, including enemy infrastructure, naval vessels, and fortified positions. The missile’s advanced guidance systems, stealth features, and high maneuverability ensure it can evade modern air defense systems, making it a critical asset in modern warfare scenarios.
The integration process for the BrahMos NG will require modifications to the MiG-29, Mirage 2000, and Tejas to accommodate the missile’s launch systems and ensure seamless compatibility. The Tejas, in particular, stands to gain significantly, as the BrahMos NG will transform the light combat aircraft into a potent strike platform, aligning with India’s goal of self-reliance in defense.
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