Extended Trajectory-Long Duration Hypersonic Cruise Missile
India is set to enhance its defence capabilities with the launch of the Extended Trajectory-Long Duration Hypersonic Cruise Missile (ET-LDHCM). This missile, developed under the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Project Vishnu, represents leap in military technology. The ET-LDHCM is designed to alter the geopolitical landscape in Asia by enabling rapid and precise strikes deep within enemy territories, particularly targeting China and Pakistan.
Development and Features
The ET-LDHCM is a product of advanced domestic technology. It can travel at speeds of up to Mach 8, equating to approximately 11,000 km/h. This speed makes it nearly impossible for current radar and air defence systems to intercept. The missile boasts a range of 1,500 kilometres and can carry conventional or nuclear warheads weighing between 1,000 and 2,000 kg. Its scramjet engine allows it to sustain hypersonic speeds for extended periods.
Operational Capabilities
The missile is engineered for versatility. It can be launched from land, air, or sea, providing India with multiple strategic options. Unlike traditional ballistic missiles that follow predictable paths, the ET-LDHCM can manoeuvre mid-flight and operate at low altitudes. This adaptability increases its effectiveness as a military asset.
Resilience and Durability
The ET-LDHCM is constructed with heat-resistant materials capable of withstanding temperatures up to 2,000 degrees Celsius. It features oxidation-resistant coatings, ensuring functionality in extreme conditions such as seawater and intense sunlight. These characteristics enhance its reliability during operational deployment.
Strategic Implications
With the ET-LDHCM, India joins an elite group of nations, including the United States, China, and Russia, that have developed hypersonic missile technology. This capability enhances India’s deterrent posture and strategic options in the region. The missile’s precision enables targeted strikes on critical enemy infrastructure, command centres, and naval assets.
Broader Applications
Beyond military uses, hypersonic technology development holds potential benefits in disaster relief, aerospace advancement, and satellite launches. The initiative offers new opportunities for Indian micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) within the defence sector, potentially creating thousands of jobs and encouraging economic growth.
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AMRENDRA SINGH
June 13, 2025 at 5:09 pmGood news 🗞️