India Tests Hypersonic Anti-Ship Missile with 1500km Range

India has successfully conducted the second flight test of its long-range hypersonic anti-ship missile (LR-AShM), marking a significant advancement in maritime defence capability. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the missile was tested off the Odisha coast and is designed to enhance India’s strategic reach in deep ocean regions.

Advanced Hypersonic Capabilities

The LR-AShM boasts a strike range exceeding 1,500 kilometres and can reach speeds of up to Mach 10, making it one of the fastest weapons in India’s arsenal. During its glide phase, it maintains an average speed of around Mach 5, enabling it to evade modern radar and interception systems. The missile uses a two-stage hypersonic glide vehicle design, which enhances both speed and manoeuvrability.

Strategic Maritime Significance

This development significantly strengthens India’s maritime deterrence, particularly against adversaries such as China and Pakistan. With the capability to target both stationary and moving naval assets, including aircraft carriers, the missile enhances India’s “carrier-killer” potential and extends its defensive perimeter into the open seas.

Technological Features and Design

The missile is equipped with advanced indigenous sensors for precision targeting during the terminal phase. Its unpredictable flight paths, including low-altitude and skipping trajectories, make detection and interception extremely difficult. It is built on a two-stage solid rocket system and can carry multiple payload configurations, further increasing its operational versatility.

Important Facts for Exams

• Hypersonic missiles travel at speeds greater than Mach 5.
• DRDO is India’s premier defence research agency established in 1958.
• Hypersonic glide vehicles can manoeuvre mid-flight, unlike ballistic missiles.
• India showcased LR-AShM during the Republic Day parade in 2026.

Boost to Indigenous Defence Innovation

The missile has been developed by laboratories under the Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex in Hyderabad along with industry partners. The successful test highlights India’s growing capabilities in advanced defence technologies and aligns with efforts towards self-reliance in strategic weapon systems.