Image Credits - Naval news
On January 24, the Indian Navy successfully conducted a test of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, engaging a land-based target at an extended range. The test carried out from either the INS Ranvir or INS Ranvijay, demonstrated the missile’s “extended range precision strike capability” and marked a significant development in its capabilities, with images of the launch released by the Navy.
This particular test was notable for the extensive area warning associated with it, spanning from January 24 to 25 and covering a maximum length of around 900 km. This extended range suggests a substantial enhancement in the BrahMos missile’s capabilities, making it capable of reaching distances of up to 900 km.
Originally restricted to a range of 290 km due to India’s non-membership in the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), the BrahMos missile saw an increase in range after India joined the MTCR in 2016. By March 2017, the missile demonstrated a range exceeding 400 km, achieved through software changes and miniaturization of certain components in the propulsion system.
In July 2021, a no-fly zone of 760 km was notified for a BrahMos test, but it failed due to a booster ignition issue. However, in January 2022, a similar zone of 780 km was declared, and a BrahMos missile with “enhanced capability” was successfully tested.
The recent test aligns with BrahMos Aerospace’s objective of achieving a maximum range of about 900 km for the missile. This threefold increase in range since 2016 has implications for all variants of the missile, including the air-launched version. The potential upgrade of older missiles, previously limited to a 290 km range, for extended reach is under consideration.
The extended range of the anti-ship variants to 900 km emphasizes the Indian Navy’s need for enhanced maritime domain awareness and intelligence, given the missile’s heightened capabilities. BrahMos Aerospace highlighted the missile’s “improved range, firepower & stealth” in a tweet on January 24. The missile’s indigenization has progressed significantly, with over 75% indigenous content expected by 2023, and recent developments, such as the indigenous fuel for liquid ramjet propulsion, indicate further localization.
While BrahMos Aerospace currently sources the ramjet engine from Russia, India is moving towards near-complete indigenization with projects like BrahMos NG and the DRDO Supersonic Target (STAR) program. Successful projects like STAR may pave the way for full indigenization of the BrahMos system in the future.
The Philippines has ordered three BrahMos batteries in a shore-based configuration for its Marine Corps. According to DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V Kamat, exports of ground systems will commence in the next 10 days, with missile deliveries expected to begin by March. The Philippine Army is also anticipated to procure the BrahMos missile system.