India's New Hypersonic Missile 3X Faster Than BrahMos, Boasts Greater Range, Deadlier Precision
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ET-LDHCM can function even at extreme temperatures of 2000°C. So far, only Russia, the US, and China possess such high-heat missile tech, putting India in elite company
Amid escalating global tensions—marked by the Israel-Iran conflict and growing friction between India and Pakistan with Turkey's backing—India is ramping up efforts to modernise its defence systems. Building on advancements like the BrahMos, Agni-5, and Akash missiles, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is now preparing to test a next-generation cruise missile under Project Vishnu.
Touted to surpass the capabilities of the BrahMos, the new missile could place India among the select few nations developing hypersonic cruise missile technology.
The Extended Trajectory Long Duration Hypersonic Missile (ET-LDHCM), developed under this project, is poised to enhance India's strategic advantage, particularly in countering Pakistan and potentially balancing China's influence.
How Does It Compare With Brahmos
The ET-LDHCM, developed entirely using indigenous technology, boasts hypersonic speeds, extended range, and precision strikes—making it significantly more lethal than the existing BrahMos missile.
Equipped with a cutting-edge scramjet engine based on the air-breathing concept, the missile uses atmospheric oxygen for combustion instead of a rotating compressor, enabling much higher speeds than conventional systems.
Capable of reaching speeds of Mach-8 (approximately 11,000 kmph), the ET-LDHCM can strike distant targets in a matter of minutes. In comparison, the BrahMos cruise missile travels at Mach-3, or about 3,675 kmph, highlighting the quantum leap in capability.
ET-LDHCM is ahead of the current BrahMos cruise missile in both speed and range. Initially, the range of BrahMos was 290 km, which was later increased to 400–450 km. In comparison, the range of ET-LDHCM is 1,500 km—making it more than three times as powerful as BrahMos in terms of reach.
ET-LDHCM is capable of carrying a 1,000 to 2,000 kg warhead. This advanced missile can strike targets with both conventional and nuclear warheads. It has also been developed by DRDO in a way that allows it to fly at low altitudes, helping it easily evade radar detection.
Can Strike From Land, Air Or Sea
Operational flexibility is a key and important feature of ET-LDHCM. It can be launched from anywhere—land, air, or sea—further strengthening India's strategic and tactical reach.
Unlike conventional ballistic missiles, ET-LDHCM can adapt to the geographical conditions of the area and even alter its path mid-flight. This capability allows it to inflict deep damage by precisely targeting and destroying enemy bases.
With a speed of 11,000 kilometres per hour and a range of 1,500 kilometres, ET-LDHCM becomes an even more formidable weapon.
Performs Even At 2,000°C
In addition to range and speed, the ability to withstand extreme temperatures is a key factor in determining the effectiveness of any missile or fighter jet.
The ET-LDHCM is designed to perform even under intense thermal conditions. It is reportedly capable of operating normally at temperatures reaching 2000 degrees Celsius.
Until now, only Russia, the United States, and China have developed such technology. A successful test of the ET-LDHCM would place India among this elite group of nations.
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