SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is steadily fortifying India’s defence capabilities with the progressive development and deployment of its Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) system. The nation is now under a multi-layered shield, designed to intercept incoming ballistic missiles at various altitudes.
Phase I of the BMD program has seen the deployment of the Prithvi Defence Vehicle (PDV) and Advanced Air Defence (AAD) interceptor systems across the country. These systems are designed to intercept ballistic missiles with ranges up to 2,000 km, providing a robust shield against medium-range threats. The deployment of these interceptors enhances India’s defensive capabilities and demonstrates the country’s progress in indigenous missile defence technology.
The Phase-II BMD system has recently undergone successful testing, showcasing DRDO’s capability to defend against more advanced ballistic missiles. This phase includes the development of two new interceptor missiles, AD-1 and AD-2. The Phase-II interceptor is a two-stage, solid-propelled, ground-launched system designed for endo- to low exo-atmospheric interception and demonstrating the indigenous capability to intercept ballistic missiles of the 5,000 km class. This system features a network-centric warfare approach, integrating long-range sensors, low-latency communication, and advanced interceptor missiles.
As DRDO advances to Phase III, the focus shifts to developing two new interceptor missiles, internally designated AD-AH and AD-AM. These missiles are in the initial stages of research and development, with developmental testing expected to commence in the next 4-5 years. While specific details about their capabilities remain under wraps, it is anticipated that these interceptors will be capable of neutralizing hypersonic threats.
Hypersonic projectiles, such as Hypersonic Glide Vehicles (HGVs) and Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missiles (HACMs), present a significant challenge due to their high speeds, manoeuvrability, and ability to remain within the atmosphere for extended periods. These characteristics make them difficult to intercept, especially during the terminal phase of their trajectory.
The AD-AH and AD-AM interceptors are expected to be equipped with advanced technologies to counter these hypersonic threats effectively. By targeting these sophisticated projectiles, DRDO aims to enhance India’s defensive capabilities against the next generation of missile threats.
DRDO’s phased approach to developing and deploying advanced missile defence systems underscores India’s commitment to national security. The successful deployment of Phase-I systems, ongoing testing of Phase-II interceptors, and ambitious plans for Phase-III development highlight the organization’s dedication to staying ahead of evolving threats. As DRDO continues to innovate and enhance its missile defence capabilities, India is poised to maintain a robust and resilient defence posture against a wide spectrum of ballistic and hypersonic threats.
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