New Delhi, Oct 20: India is set to significantly enhance its long-range precision strike capability with the upcoming induction of an 800-kilometre extended-range version of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile within the next two years. The upgraded missile—an evolution of the existing 450-km variant—will bolster India’s deterrence and deep-strike potential across land and sea targets.
According to a report, tests for the 800-km BrahMos are currently underway, featuring a modified ramjet engine and upgraded guidance systems. The extended-range variant is expected to be fully operational by the end of 2027, marking a major milestone in India’s non-nuclear conventional strike capability.
“The 800-km BrahMos is more or less developed in terms of modifications to its ramjet engine. A few more tests are required to validate the combination of internal INS (inertial navigation system) and external global navigation satellite systems for higher accuracy and resistance to jamming,” a source was quoted as saying.
The development follows India’s successful use of 450-km BrahMos missiles launched from Sukhoi-30MKI aircraft during Operation Sindoor in May, which saw precision strikes deep inside Pakistan. The missiles, flying at nearly Mach 2.8 (three times the speed of sound), played a decisive role in neutralising high-value targets during the operation.
In another major boost to India’s air power, production of the 200-km Astra air-to-air missiles is slated to begin in 2026–27, expanding the country’s indigenous missile arsenal.
With these upgrades, India aims to consolidate its status as a global leader in supersonic missile technology, while reinforcing its defence posture amid regional security challenges. (Agencies)
