India has reached a significant milestone in defense technology with the successful test flight of a long-range hypersonic missile. The trial, conducted from Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island near Odisha, demonstrates a major leap in the nation’s military preparedness, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh announced on Sunday.
Capable of carrying various types of payloads over distances beyond 1,500 kilometers, the hypersonic missile signifies a breakthrough in India’s strategic defense capabilities. With this achievement, India joins the exclusive group of nations equipped with advanced hypersonic missile technology, Singh highlighted.
“India has achieved a historic milestone by successfully testing a long-range hypersonic missile. This remarkable accomplishment places us among a select few nations with such sophisticated military technology,” Singh noted on social media.
The missile’s performance was closely monitored through an array of tracking systems deployed across different platforms. According to the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), data collected from ship stations along the missile’s trajectory confirmed its precise terminal maneuvers and pinpoint accuracy at impact. The test was conducted late Saturday night.
Developed indigenously at the Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex in Hyderabad, the missile is the result of collaboration between multiple DRDO laboratories and industry partners. Senior scientists from the DRDO and officials from the Armed Forces were present to witness the successful trial.
Following the test, the Defence Minister, Defence Secretary, and DRDO Chairman commended the team for their efforts. This development is expected to significantly enhance India’s defense capabilities and strengthen its standing in the global military technology arena.
Hypersonic missiles, known for their ability to travel at speeds greater than Mach 5, are challenging to detect and intercept. This successful trial underscores India’s advancements in cutting-edge military technology, reinforcing its strategic deterrence and enhancing national security.
