India has successfully conducted the flight trial of its first long-range hypersonic missile, a significant achievement in the country’s defense capabilities. This development places India in an exclusive group of nations with the technology to deploy hypersonic weapons.
Test Overview
- Date: 16th November in Night
- Location: Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha
- Missile: Hypersonic missile developed by DRDO
- Speed: Capable of traveling at speeds greater than Mach 5 (6,174 km/h)
- Range: Greater than 1,500 km
- Target Capability: Can hit both moving sea targets and static land targets
Hypersonic Technology
- A hypersonic missile travels at speeds five times the speed of sound (Mach 5) or more.
- Some versions can exceed Mach 15.
- Hypersonic missiles are difficult to intercept due to their speed and maneuverability, making them a strategic asset.
Significance
- The missile’s successful test showcases India’s growing defense capabilities and strengthens its position in global military technology.
- The missile’s ability to hit moving targets at sea and static objects on land further enhances India’s strategic military reach.
