India’s Missile Development Push Hypersonic Missiles, Long-Range Rockets, and Loitering Munitions on the Horizon

India’s missile development program is witnessing significant advancements as the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) continues its work on a variety of sophisticated weapons systems aimed at bolstering the country’s defense capabilities. The Indian Army is actively pursuing the induction of long-range missiles, including the Pralay and Nirbhay, as well as advanced loitering munitions and extended-range rockets to enhance its firepower and strategic reach.

Hypersonic Missile Development

DRDO is spearheading efforts to develop hypersonic missiles capable of achieving speeds greater than Mach 5, making them difficult to intercept. Hypersonic missiles are considered a game-changer in modern warfare due to their unparalleled speed, maneuverability, and ability to strike distant targets with precision. The technology involves advanced propulsion systems like scramjets, which enable these missiles to travel at extreme velocities while maintaining control and accuracy.

India's hypersonic missile development is focused on enhancing both the range and lethality of its missile systems. Although specific details of the projects are classified, the development is likely inspired by successful tests of the Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator Vehicle (HSTDV), which laid the groundwork for future hypersonic weapons.

Nirbhay and Pralay Missiles

The Indian Army has set its sights on the induction of two key missile systems: the Nirbhay and Pralay. The Nirbhay missile, a subsonic cruise missile with a range of around 1,000 to 1,500 kilometers, is designed for deep-strike capabilities. It is equipped with a terrain-hugging flight profile, making it difficult to detect and intercept, and can carry a variety of warheads. Recent enhancements are expected to extend its range to 2,000 kilometers, bringing more strategic targets within its reach.

The Pralay missile, on the other hand, is a short-range ballistic missile with a range of approximately 150 to 400 kilometers. It is intended to provide the Army with the ability to carry out quick, high-precision strikes on enemy positions and infrastructure. With a payload capacity of up to 1,000 kilograms, Pralay is designed for use in both conventional and nuclear roles, offering a flexible and potent deterrent.

Expanding the Pinaka Rocket System

The Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) system has been a success story in India’s drive for self-reliance in defense technology. The Army plans to extend the range of this indigenous system from its current maximum of 75 kilometers to up to 300 kilometers. This upgraded version, known as the Pinaka Mk-II, is expected to significantly enhance the Army’s artillery capabilities, enabling it to strike deeper into enemy territory with greater accuracy and lethality.

Advanced Munitions and Drones

Lt. Gen. A Kumar, Director General of the Indian Army's Regiment of Artillery, highlighted ongoing efforts to procure and develop advanced munitions and drones to keep pace with modern warfare requirements. The Army is actively engaging with the private sector and academic institutions to develop Sensor Fused Munitions (SFM) and extended-range ammunition using ramjet propulsion technology. These munitions are expected to offer superior accuracy and lethality, enhancing the effectiveness of artillery units.

Additionally, the Army is looking to induct loitering munitions and swarm drones. Loitering munitions, also known as "kamikaze drones," can hover over a target area before diving in for a precision strike. Swarm drones, operating in coordinated formations, can overwhelm enemy defenses and provide real-time intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.

Adapting to Modern Warfare

The Indian Army is also taking lessons from ongoing global conflicts, such as the war in Ukraine, to refine its operational strategies and capabilities. Lt. Gen. Kumar emphasized the need for continual innovation and adaptation to integrate effectively in a combined arms environment. The focus is on enhancing operational preparedness and developing advanced employment philosophies to address emerging threats.

Women Officers in the Artillery Regiment

In a significant step towards gender inclusivity, the Regiment of Artillery has commissioned 19 women officers, assigning them to various units with different equipment profiles and terrain conditions. The Army is committed to providing equal opportunities and is confident in their abilities to excel in their roles.

Training and Modernization

The Army is modernizing its training infrastructure to keep pace with the introduction of new technologies and weapons systems. The training of Agniveers, a new cadre of soldiers, is being updated to incorporate the use of niche technologies such as loiter munitions and advanced drones. Modern physical training facilities and state-of-the-art classrooms with audio-visual aids are being established to enhance the overall training experience.

Future Prospects

With the induction of advanced missile systems and munitions, the Indian Army aims to significantly boost its strike capabilities and deterrence posture. The ongoing development of hypersonic missiles and the extension of existing weapon systems' ranges will provide the armed forces with the ability to strike deep and hard, enhancing India’s strategic depth and operational reach. As the country continues to invest in cutting-edge technology and indigenous defense manufacturing, its military prowess is set to scale new heights.