New Delhi : India has shown its strength in the defense sector. India has successfully flight tested a long-range hypersonic missile for the first time. This is a big achievement for the country. The test was conducted off Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh gave this information. This is a historic moment for India. This important achievement has included our country in the select group of countries which have the capability of such important and advanced military technologies. The Defense Minister congratulated DRDO and the armed forces on this wonderful achievement.
Capable of hitting up to 1500 kilometers
Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) test-fired a long-range hypersonic missile from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha. The hypersonic missile tested by DRDO is designed to carry various payloads to a range of more than 1500 kilometers for all services of the Indian Armed Forces.
The missile has been indigenously developed by the laboratories of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex, Hyderabad along with various other DRDO laboratories and industry partners. The flight test was conducted in the presence of senior scientists from DRDO and armed forces.
How does a hypersonic missile work?
Hypersonic missiles travel at more than five times the speed of sound in the upper atmosphere. In this way it travels at a speed of approximately 6,200 km per hour (3,850 mph). It is slower than an intercontinental ballistic missile. However, the shape of the hypersonic glide vehicle allows it to move towards the target. The glide vehicle is paired with a missile, which can launch it in partial maneuver.
It has a fractional orbital bombardment system (FOBS) - overwhelming enemies with reaction time and conventional defense systems. In contrast, intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) carry nuclear warheads on ballistic trajectories that travel through space but never reach orbit.
What are the potential global implications of India’s hypersonic missile advancements?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Defense Expert
Editor: Good afternoon, and welcome to Time.news. Today, we’re diving into a significant milestone for India in the realm of defense technology. Joining me is Dr. Anjali Sharma, a leading defense analyst and expert in missile technology. Thank you for being here, Dr. Sharma.
Dr. Sharma: Thank you for having me. It’s great to be here to discuss this pivotal moment for India.
Editor: Let’s get right to it. India has successfully flight tested a long-range hypersonic missile off Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island. Could you elaborate on why this test is so consequential for India?
Dr. Sharma: Absolutely. This successful test is a substantial leap in India’s defense capabilities. Hypersonic missiles, which travel at speeds of Mach 5 or faster, are difficult to detect and intercept. By demonstrating this technology, India not only strengthens its national security but positions itself among a select group of countries—like the United States, Russia, and China—that possess such advanced capabilities.
Editor: That’s very interesting. The Defense Minister, Rajnath Singh, labeled this a ‘historic moment’ for India. How does this achievement impact India’s international standing?
Dr. Sharma: It definitely enhances India’s stature on the global stage. It signals not just our technological prowess but also our commitment to maintaining strategic deterrence in a rapidly evolving regional security landscape. Countries often reconsider their diplomatic and military strategies based on advancements in their neighbors’ military capabilities.
Editor: Given that this test was conducted off the coast of Odisha, how does the geographical location play into the significance of the test?
Dr. Sharma: The location is significant for several reasons. Odisha offers a controlled environment for flight tests, minimizing risks to populated areas. Moreover, it shows India’s capability to execute complex operations in its coastal areas, which is essential for launching such advanced systems into potential adversarial territories.
Editor: What does this mean for India’s defense development strategy moving forward?
Dr. Sharma: Successes like this bolster confidence in indigenous defense programs, encouraging further investment in research and development. It may also prompt the government to prioritize hypersonics and related technologies, fostering collaboration between our defense research organizations and private sectors, which can lead to even more innovations.
Editor: There are always concerns about nuclear capabilities. How does hypersonic technology intersect with India’s nuclear strategy?
Dr. Sharma: Hypersonic missiles can potentially deliver nuclear warheads given their speed and maneuverability. This adds an important dimension to deterrent strategies, making it necessary for adversaries to rethink their own military posturing in light of such capabilities. However, India has historically maintained a no-first-use policy, and this test might reinforce our deterrence without altering our strategic doctrine significantly.
Editor: It appears that the implications are vast. Before we wrap up, what do you think the next steps for India should be in the hypersonic defense sector?
Dr. Sharma: The government should aim for sustained investment in both development and deployment of hypersonic technologies, coupled with engaging in international discussions about arms control and use of these advanced systems. Additionally, transparency about intentions can help manage regional tensions.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Sharma, for your insights into this groundbreaking achievement. It’s clear that India’s advancements in defense are not only pivotal for national security but are set to play a significant role in the global defense landscape.
Dr. Sharma: Thank you for having me! I look forward to seeing how these developments unfold.
Editor: And thank you to our viewers for joining us. Stay tuned for more on this and other important news stories.
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End of Interview