SOURCE: IDRW.ORG.
BrahMos Aerospace, the Indo-Russian joint venture, has unveiled an ambitious roadmap for the next generation of BrahMos missiles. The BrahMos-2K project promises to revolutionize cruise missile technology, surpassing the capabilities of the current BrahMos with significant advancements in speed and range.
BrahMos will be developed in two stages, each introducing a distinct speed variant. The first stage, targeted for completion by 2026, will see the BrahMos achieve near hypersonic speed of Mach 5. This initial version will utilize a next-generation ramjet engine, leveraging existing technology transfer from Russia. Informed sources suggest BrahMos has already conducted successful lab tests exceeding Mach 6.5. While final cruise speed might be capped just above Mach 5, officially classifying it as hypersonic, this initial BrahMos paves the way for a true hypersonic future.
The second stage of BrahMos-2K development, targeted for 2027 onwards, aims even higher. This variant will likely feature a scramjet engine, a technology under negotiation with Russia. Inspiration might be drawn from the scramjet engine powering Russia’s 3M22 Zircon hypersonic missile. This new engine promises a blistering Mach 7 speed, potentially expandable to Mach 9.
While the Indian Tri-Services won’t replace the current BrahMos entirely due to cost considerations, the BrahMos-2K represents a significant leap forward in offensive cruise missile technology. The BrahMos-2K will be available for deployment on frontline warships, land-based mobile launchers, and potentially even fighter jets.
While weight limitations might preclude an air-launched variant of the BrahMos-2K, BrahMos Aerospace isn’t neglecting this crucial domain. A separate project, the BrahMos-NG (Next Generation) is in development. This Mach 3 air-launched cruise missile will be smaller and lighter, compatible with a wider range of IAF fighter jets compared to the current BrahMos-A, which is limited to specially modified Sukhoi-30MKIs.
BrahMos development doesn’t stop with the BrahMos-2K. Efforts are underway to extend the range of the current BrahMos missile to a formidable 800km. Recent tests have already demonstrated an improved range of 450km, exceeding the original 290km. By the end of 2024, BrahMos aims to achieve the full 800km range without compromising on its current speed.
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