Indian Army and Air Force to Acquire 800-Km Range BrahMos Supersonic Missiles
The Indian Army and Air Force are set to significantly boost their long-range strike capabilities with the acquisition of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles featuring an extended range of 800 kilometers. This marks a major enhancement over the earlier 300-kilometer range variant, offering greater strategic reach and flexibility for India’s armed forces.
Major Expansion in Missile Capabilities
A proposal to procure around 250 of these advanced long-range BrahMos missiles has been cleared by the Defence Acquisition Council and now awaits final approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security. Once approved, these missiles will be deployed in units positioned across varied terrain—from the deserts of western India to the high-altitude regions along the northern borders.
The new variant is expected to provide the armed forces with enhanced ability to conduct precision strikes deep into enemy territory, supporting both deterrence and rapid offensive capabilities.
Strategic and Operational Impact
With a range that now stretches up to 800 kilometers, the BrahMos gives India a formidable tactical edge in the region. The missile can be launched from land, sea, and air platforms, making it a flexible asset for all three services. The Indian Air Force has already modified several Su-30MKI fighter jets to carry air-launched BrahMos variants, and these will also benefit from the upgraded missile.
This development is part of India’s broader strategy to modernize its missile arsenal, counter regional threats, and assert its strategic autonomy.
Indigenous Drive and Global Outlook
The extended-range BrahMos has been developed by BrahMos Aerospace, a joint venture between Indian and Russian defense sectors. While the core technology was initially developed jointly, India has progressively increased the indigenous content of the missile. This aligns with the country’s drive for self-reliance in defense under the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiative.
The system has also generated significant international interest, with India already having signed export agreements for the BrahMos missile system, including a landmark deal with the Philippines. The extended-range variant may further expand its appeal in global defense markets.
