In the light of the changing situation in and around the nation, India is continuously working on adding more cutting-edge defence weapons to their arsenal.
These include ultra-modern fighter jets, drones, and missile systems that are being continuously upgraded for better defence. India shares its border with Pakistan and China; hence, it is essential to prepare for all eventualities that might befall in the future.
BrahMos ER version
To ensure that we can tackle all necessary actions when necessary, we need a dynamic armoury that has all the necessary elements for warfare. A veritable missile system is profoundly necessary, and hence India has been working on developing existing systems to an advanced level. The existing systems include the BrahMos, a cruise missile, and on the other hand, we have Agni-5, an intercontinental missile that can penetrate the enemy’s lair and destroy it.
The Agni-5 is well equipped for an all-out war; it is an ICBM equipped with MIRV technology and can also carry nuclear warheads if necessary. The missile is synonymous with destruction. One another such missile system that proved its worth during Operation Sindoor is the BrahMos cruise missile.
BrahMos Cruise Missile
A new version of the cruise missile is currently under development; it is being jointly worked on by India and Russia. The new avatar of the BrahMos will be revealed soon. The new version will have better range than the existing version, and beyond that, it will be given a new moniker as well. As per media reports, it is possible that the new version might be called the BrahMos ER.
As per the established plans, the new ER version of the BrahMos will be ready by 2028. Along with its development, the missile is being tested as well to validate its long-range flight profile. The goal with the development project is to nearly double the effective range of the missile while retaining its supersonic speed, high accuracy, and multi-platform capability. The missile will have the capability of being launched from land, sea, and air platforms.
Benefits to Indian Navy and the Army
As per the Indian Defence Research Wing, the new addition will empower warships and coastal batteries to target enemy ships and bases deep within the disputed waters with ease, further strengthening India’s strategic hold over the Indian Ocean Region. Such additions will ensure that we have the right defences along with the capability to ensure a deadly strike when it is necessary.
Beyond the ER, plans also exist for the development of a lighter version of the BrahMos ER, which will further increase its deployment in the army, as fighter jets will be able to carry it along with them. The older versions of the BrahMos have already been used in a similar manner, and the successful use of these missiles proved the system’s reliability and further strengthened the air force’s confidence.
Currently being tested thoroughly, the new missile system will soon add to the armoury. The new initiative will ensure that India is ready for any deterrence in an ever-changing security landscape with emerging challenges.