SOURCE: AFI
India on Saturday successfully tested its first long-range hypersonic missile, placing it among a select group of nations — including China, Russia, and the United States (US) — that have achieved such technological advancements. Hypersonic weapons, capable of traveling at speeds greater than Mach 5, represent the cutting edge of military technology. Their ability to evade conventional missile defense systems and strike with precision has made them a game-changer in modern warfare. As global powers invest heavily in hypersonic technology, India is actively working to develop its own hypersonic capabilities, positioning itself alongside nations like the US, Russia, and China.
India’s hypersonic weapon program is spearheaded by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), which has already achieved significant milestones in this domain.
- Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator Vehicle (HSTDV)
In 2020, DRDO successfully tested the HSTDV, a scramjet-powered vehicle designed to validate technologies for hypersonic cruise missiles. The vehicle achieved speeds of Mach 6, marking India’s entry into the elite club of nations capable of hypersonic technology development. - Upcoming Hypersonic Glide Vehicle (HGV)
India is reportedly working on a hypersonic glide vehicle that will be integrated with its existing ballistic missile platforms. This system is expected to provide a maneuverable, precision-strike capability against high-value targets, making it a vital component of India’s deterrence strategy. - Hypersonic Cruise Missiles
Building on the HSTDV’s success, India plans to develop a fully operational hypersonic cruise missile by the mid-2030s. This system will likely use advanced scramjet technology, offering extended range and improved strike capabilities.
Hypersonic weapons offer the ability to strike targets with unparalleled speed and precision, reducing reaction times for adversaries. For India, these capabilities will bolster its deterrence posture, particularly against regional rivals like China and Pakistan, both of which are advancing their own hypersonic programs.
India’s hypersonic weapons will not only serve as nuclear delivery systems but also enhance conventional strike options. These weapons could be used for pre-emptive strikes on critical enemy infrastructure, such as command centers or air defense networks, without the risk of interception.
By joining the ranks of hypersonic-capable nations, India signals its technological maturity and defense self-reliance on the global stage. This capability will strengthen India’s position in international forums and defense collaborations.
India’s hypersonic development timeline suggests that operational systems may be ready by the 2030s. With the HSTDV as a foundation, DRDO is likely to focus on refining scramjet engines, enhancing maneuverability, and integrating hypersonic systems into its defense ecosystem.