New Delhi: This has been observed that India has made significant advancements with the BrahMos missile, incorporating traditional features while enhancing its capabilities. New models are now being introduced, and updates include changes in the missile’s range, capabilities, and export potential
The BrahMos missile has been in India’s arsenal for several years, but a significant transformation occurred in 2016 under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership. India became the 35th country to sign the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), allowing India to access critical missile technology and giving the country the authority to export missiles with a range beyond 300 km, which was previously restricted under the MTCR framework.
Before signing the MTCR agreement, the range of BrahMos was limited to under 300 kilometers, and its payload was restricted to 500 kg. However, after becoming a signatory, India now has the freedom to extend the missile’s range, and BrahMos Aerospace was able to work on expanding the missile’s capabilities. The range extension has now moved from 250 kilometers to 800 kilometers, which is becoming the standard for the missile.
In March 2024, India approved a deal to acquire more than 200 BrahMos missiles as part of a ₹19,000 crore defense deal. These missiles will likely have ranges of 450 km or 800 km, with most standard variants being around 100 km. However, India plans to retain the 800 km range variant for its use, while offering lower-range versions to countries in Southeast Asia.
India is also developing an Integrated Rocket Force, which will include multiple types of rockets and missiles. The Indian defense sector is investing in several kinds of missile systems, including the Pinaka rocket system, which has recently seen a significant deal worth ₹1,000 crore. This system is one of the most advanced and will be available in large quantities.
The Indian defense sector is also developing other missiles like the Nirbhay, which already has an operational range of up to 1,000 kilometers, and a new hypersonic cruise missile. This is expected to further strengthen India’s missile capabilities.
One of the most important projects is the development of the 04 missile, which will be a new kind of ballistic missile with a range of up to 1,500 kilometers. The third stage of this missile involves hypersonic flight, which is expected to change the landscape of missile technology.
In terms of long-range missile systems, India is working on extending the range to up to 1,500 kilometers for certain missile variants. The focus is also on developing missiles with a combination of ballistic and hypersonic glide capabilities, which will provide the Indian military with superior range and precision.
While these developments are impressive, there are several challenges, such as reducing missile payload as range increases. India is working on refining its missile technology to ensure that long-range capabilities do not compromise missile payload or accuracy.
The future of India’s missile technology lies in continued development of the BrahMos system and other advanced rocket systems like the Pinaka. India’s defense strategy is focused on making these systems available for both internal use and export markets.
India’s efforts in enhancing its missile technology, including the extended range of BrahMos missiles, are crucial for strengthening its defense capabilities. These advancements will not only serve India’s strategic interests but also position India as a key player in the global defense market.
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