DRDO has reportedly achieved a major hypersonic technology breakthrough after completing a long-duration test of an actively cooled, full-scale scramjet combustor in Hyderabad. The trial ran for over 1200 seconds and used indigenous fuel and cooling technology, marking a significant step toward India’s hypersonic missile development programme.
India’s May 8 missile launch over the Bay of Bengal—accompanied by a 3500 km NOTAM and no official explanation—has triggered speculation about whether it signals an Agni-5 upgrade or an Agni-6 step. The move lands as China and Pakistan reportedly expand nuclear and hypersonic capabilities, reshaping deterrence calculations across the Indo-Pacific.
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DRDO has successfully completed a Phase-II flight test of its Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LR-AShM) from off the Odisha coast, reporting a perfect score. The missile targets long-range maritime threats with hypersonic capabilities, reaching Mach 10 speed and using glide vehicle technology, aimed at strengthening India’s anti-ship deterrence and fleet protection.
DRDO says it is ready to start work on the Agni-VI ballistic missile, but is waiting for central government approval. The agency is also advancing hypersonic glide and cruise missile programmes, with initial glide trials expected soon. India additionally plans a multi-layered conventional missile force aimed at varied tactical needs, signaling a widening, faster-moving deterrence capability.
DRDO Chairman Samir V Kamat says India’s LR-AShM hypersonic glide missile programme is in an advanced stage, with initial trials expected soon. Speaking at ANI’s National Security Summit 2.0, he explained how hypersonic glide vehicles differ from cruise missiles and outlined plans for a multi-layered conventional strike force aimed at next-generation deterrence and precision.
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