Introduction

India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has made significant strides in developing two advanced missile systems: the hypersonic Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRAShM) and the subsonic Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM). These developments represent major advancements in India’s missile technology and strategic defense capabilities.

Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRAShM)

Key Features:

Hypersonic speed (exceeding Mach 5)

Range greater than 1,500 kilometers

Delta-winged hypersonic glide vehicle (HGV) for enhanced maneuverability

Approximately 14 meters long and weighing under 20 tons

Capable of carrying various payloads

Designed for launch from both land-based platforms and naval vessels

Strategic Importance:

Marks India’s entry into the elite group of nations with hypersonic missile technology

Enhances India’s conventional strike capabilities

Provides a deterrent against regional threats, particularly China and Pakistan

Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM)

Key Features:

Subsonic cruise missile

Range exceeding 1,000 kilometers

Powered by the indigenous Manik Small Turbo Fan Engine (STFE)

Capable of launch from ground-based mobile articulated launchers and naval platforms

Utilizes a Universal Vertical Launch Module (UVLM) system for ship-based launches

Development and Production:

Developed by DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE)

Bharat Dynamics Limited and Bharat Electronics Limited are Development-Cum-Production-Partners

Approved by the Defence Acquisition Council as a Mission Mode Project

Manufacturing Plans

Both missile systems are part of India’s efforts to enhance its indigenous defense capabilities:

LRAShM:

Currently in the testing phase, with successful trials conducted. Full-scale production plans are likely to follow successful completion of testing.

LRLACM:

Indian Air Force plans to procure missiles worth approximately ₹10,000 crore

Indian Army has allocated about ₹4,000 crore for procurement

Production Partners: State-owned companies Bharat Dynamics Limited and Bharat Electronics Limited are engaged in missile development and integration for LRLACM.

Engine Production:

The STFE engine for LRLACM is being produced by BrahMos Aerospace in Thiruvananthapuram.

Conclusion

These developments significantly enhance India’s long-range strike capabilities, complementing existing systems like the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile. The successful development and planned production of these missiles demonstrate India’s growing expertise in advanced missile technology and its commitment to strengthening its strategic defense posture.