SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has finally revealed details of the BM-04 Short-Range Ballistic Missile (SRBM), which was showcased for the first time at the Gachibowli Stadium in Hyderabad. As confirmed to idrw.org, the BM-04 is a technologically advanced missile designed for precision strikes, featuring a range of cutting-edge components and capabilities.
The BM-04’s debut at Gachibowli Stadium follows years of speculation about DRDO’s next-generation missile projects. While the “BM” designation—potentially standing for “Ballistic Missile”—is new, its unveiling suggests the program has reached a mature design phase. Sources indicate that the missile builds on technologies tested in India’s hypersonic trials, notably the November 16, 2024, test of a long-range hypersonic missile off Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island, which exceeded Mach 5 and covered over 1,500 km.
The BM-04’s two-stage solid propulsion mirrors systems like the Agni-Prime and Pralay, but its fixed wings and control fins hint at a boost-glide capability, allowing it to maneuver during re-entry. This aligns with DRDO’s efforts to counter enemy anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) strategies, a focus emphasized at the Hyderabad exhibition. Though labeled an SRBM but it has a upper range of 1,500 km blurs the line into medium-range territory, suggesting a scalable platform adaptable for diverse missions.
As detailed to idrw.org, the missile comprises the following key components:
- Fixed Wings: Positioned on the re-entry vehicle, these enhance aerodynamic stability during atmospheric flight.
- Interstage-2/3: A structural connector between the re-entry vehicle and the second propulsion stage, ensuring seamless separation and transition.
- Re-Entry Vehicle: The payload-carrying segment, designed for maneuverability and accuracy.
- Control Fins: Cruciform fins that provide flight control and stability during both exo-atmospheric and endo-atmospheric phases.
- Stage-2 Solid Propulsion System: The upper stage, powering the missile through its boost-glide trajectory.
- Interstage-1/2: Links the first and second stages, facilitating stage separation.
- Base Shroud: Protects the missile’s base and Stage-1 propulsion system during launch and ascent.
- Stage-1 Solid Propulsion System: The initial booster, propelling the missile off its road-mobile launcher.
Salient Features of the BM-04
The BM-04’s specifications, as confirmed to idrw.org, reveal a versatile and potent platform:
- Range: 400-1,500 km, offering flexibility for both tactical and theatre-level operations.
- Warhead: Conventional payload of 500 kg, with potential for future variants.
- Circular Error Probable (CEP): Less than 30 meters, ensuring pinpoint accuracy.
- Guidance: Inertial Navigation System (INS) augmented by satellite navigation (GPS and IRNSS), enabling robust targeting even in contested environments.
- Speed: Capable of reaching 40 km/hr during launch phase, with hypersonic speeds (above Mach 5) in flight, as inferred from its design lineage.
- Mobility: Road-mobile, launched from a canister-mounted Transporter Erector Launcher (TEL), enhancing survivability and deployment flexibility.
- Missile Launch Mass: 11,500 kg, balancing payload capacity with portability.
- Dimensions: 10.2 meters in length and 1.2 meters in diameter, slightly thicker than the Agni-1 Prime (A1P), optimizing aerodynamic performance.
These features position the BM-04 as a formidable addition to India’s Integrated Rocket Force, blending the short-range punch of the Pralay missile with advanced maneuverability akin to hypersonic systems.
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