BrahMos Missile
The BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, first successfully tested on June 12, 2001, is believed to have been used in an actual combat scenario for the first time during Operation Sindoor. This supersonic cruise missile represents a collaboration between India and Russia, showcasing advanced military technology. Its recent operational use during conflicts has brought into light its strategic importance.
Development of BrahMos
The BrahMos missile was developed under India’s Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme initiated in the 1980s. Dr APJ Abdul Kalam played a very important role in this initiative. The need for cruise missiles became evident following their effective use in the Gulf War of 1991. In 1998, India and Russia signed an agreement to create BrahMos Aerospace, combining the names of the Brahmaputra and Moskva rivers. This joint venture aimed to produce a high-precision supersonic missile.
Anatomy of BrahMos
BrahMos is a two-stage missile featuring a solid propellant booster and a liquid ramjet engine. The first stage accelerates the missile to supersonic speeds, while the second stage propels it to three times the speed of sound. Its compact design and low radar cross-section enhance its stealth capabilities. The missile can operate at altitudes of 15 kilometres and as low as 10 metres, making it challenging to detect.
Variants of BrahMos
BrahMos has multiple variants tailored for different platforms and mission profiles:
- Ship-Based Variant: This version can be launched from both moving and static naval platforms. It can engage targets at sea and on land, enhancing naval warfare capabilities
- Land-Based System: The land-based BrahMos Complex features mobile launchers capable of firing multiple missiles at different targets. It has been operational in the Indian Army since 2007 and is designed for precision strikes.
- Air-Launched Version: The air-launched BrahMos is integrated with the Sukhoi-30 MKI fighter jet. It has demonstrated its capability to engage targets from long ranges, serving as a deterrent against adversaries.
- Submarine-Launched Version: This variant can be launched from underwater, allowing stealthy strikes from submarines. It was first tested successfully in 2013.
- BrahMos-NG (Next Generation): This futuristic version is under development, focusing on enhanced stealth, reduced size, and improved capabilities for underwater combat.
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