Missile Technology
The global strategic landscape is being significantly reshaped by advancements in hypersonic missile technology. A recent report has surfaced, indicating that China has purportedly achieved a breakthrough in this domain, with claims of developing hypersonic missile technology capable of striking any location on Earth within a mere 30 minutes. This development unfolds against the backdrop of India’s Operation Sindoor, where the BrahMos missile was reportedly employed effectively against Pakistani defence systems. The implications of China’s advancements in hypersonic missile technology for India’s security and its own development in this critical area are being closely watched.
Understanding China’s Leap in Hypersonic Missile Technology
It has been reported that Chinese scientists have detailed their progress in hypersonic missile technology in the academic journal Acta Aeronautica et Astronautica Sinica. The report suggests the development of missiles integrated with a re-entry glide vehicle (RGV), enabling travel at astonishing speeds of up to Mach 20 (approximately 13,000 km per hour). It is this velocity that purportedly allows any point on the globe to be reached within half an hour.
The Nature of Hypersonic Missile Technology
Hypersonic missile technology involves weapons engineered to surpass the capabilities of traditional defence systems. Detection by conventional radar is challenging, although infrared technology offers a tracking method. The design of the RGV allows for rapid and unpredictable changes in direction during flight. Furthermore, these missiles can reportedly be launched from diverse platforms, including both space-based satellites and ground installations.
Global Race in Hypersonic Missile Technology and India’s Position
Major global powers are actively investing in the progress of missile technology. For instance, the United States and Britain are collaborating on a hypersonic cruise missile demonstrator program, with numerous tests already conducted and an anticipated readiness by 2030. This emerging generation of weaponry has the potential to fundamentally alter the existing global power dynamics.
India’s Advancements in Hypersonic Missile Technology
India is also making notable strides in the realm of missile technology. In 2020, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted a test of the Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator Vehicle (HSTDV). Moreover, the development of the BrahMos-2 hypersonic missile is underway, which is expected to play a vital role in maintaining strategic parity, particularly in the context of China’s advancements in missile technology.
Strengthening India’s Defence Capabilities Against Hypersonic Threats
Despite the presence of advanced air defence systems such as the S-400 and Prithvi, it is understood that India will need to further enhance its capabilities to effectively counter the threat posed by missile technology. The successful test-firing of a long-range hypersonic missile by India in November 2024 from APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha signifies a crucial step in this direction. This DRDO-developed missile is designed to carry various payloads over distances exceeding 1,500 km.
Generally, hypersonic missiles are defined by their ability to travel at speeds exceeding five times the speed of sound (Mach 5, roughly 6,125 km/h at sea level). However, more advanced iterations can achieve speeds surpassing Mach 15. Currently, Russia and China are considered to be at the forefront of hypersonic missile development, while the United States is actively pursuing its own ambitious programs. Several other nations, including France, Germany, Australia, Japan, Iran, and Israel, are also engaged in projects aimed at developing their own hypersonic missile systems. The ongoing advancements in missile technology necessitate continuous evaluation and strengthening of India’s defence strategies.
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