Key Facts and Data Points
- Missile name: Long Range Anti‑Ship Hypersonic Missile (LR‑AShM)
- Speed: Initial Mach 10; sustains average Mach 5 during glide phase
- Range: ~1,500 km (future variants up to 3,500 km)
- Trajectory: Quasi‑ballistic launch followed by low‑altitude, manoeuvrable hypersonic glide (multiple atmospheric “skips”)
- Propulsion: Two‑stage solid‑rocket motor; Stage‑1 separates after burnout, Stage‑2 powers the missile before it enters an un‑powered glide phase
- Target set: Both static and moving naval targets; capable of sea‑denial against all classes of warships
- Stealth features: Low‑altitude flight, high speed, and manoeuvrability make detection and interception by enemy radars difficult
- Development status: Successful test in Nov 2024; variants for Army, Air Force and ship‑launched use under development; induction expected within 2‑3 years
Background and Context
- Strategic need: With the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) witnessing increasing great‑power naval activity, India requires a credible sea‑denial capability to protect its coastline and maritime interests.
- Indigenization drive: LR‑AShM is a wholly indigenous system, aligning with the Government’s "Make in India" and self‑reliance (Atmanirbhar) policies for defence equipment.
- Global hypersonic race: Nations such as the USA, Russia, China and France are fielding hypersonic weapons. LR‑AShM places India among a select group possessing a hypersonic anti‑ship system.
Significance for India / Governance / Policy
- Maritime security: Enhances deterrence against hostile naval forces, safeguarding sea‑lines of communication (SLOCs) vital for trade and energy imports.
- Technological edge: Demonstrates DRDO’s capability in hypersonic glide technology, boosting confidence for future programmes (e.g., hypersonic cruise missiles, space launch vehicles).
- Economic impact: Indigenous development reduces dependence on imports, saves foreign exchange, and creates high‑skill jobs.
- Policy implications: May influence India's naval procurement strategy, force‑structure planning, and diplomatic posture in the IOR.
Related Constitutional / Legal Provisions
- Article 253 & 252 of the Constitution: Enable the Union to enter into agreements for defence procurement and technology transfer.
- Defence Production Policy (2022) & Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020: Provide the framework for indigenous development and fast‑track induction of critical systems like LR‑AShM.