The country has successfully tested its latest hypersonic missile, ET-LDHCM, capable of reaching speeds up to Mach 8—eight times the speed of sound—and striking targets as far as 1,500 kilometers away. This cutting-edge development positions India among the select group of nations with operational hypersonic missile capabilities, significantly enhancing its strategic deterrence and military prowess.
The ET-LDHCM (Extended-Range, Long-Duration Hypersonic Cruise Missile) represents the next generation of India’s indigenous missile technology. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with leading Indian aerospace firms, the missile is designed to deliver rapid, precise, and long-range strikes against high-value targets.
Achieves hypersonic velocities of Mach 8 (approximately 9,800 km/h), making it extremely difficult to intercept. Capable of engaging targets up to 1,500 km away, covering a vast operational radius.
Features advanced guidance and control systems, allowing evasive maneuvers and precision targeting. Can be launched from land-based mobile platforms, with future plans for air and sea-based variants.
The successful test of ET-LDHCM marks a significant milestone in India’s quest for advanced missile systems and strengthens its strategic deterrence posture in the region. Hypersonic weapons are considered game-changers in modern warfare due to their speed, unpredictability, and ability to penetrate even the most sophisticated missile defense systems.
The test was conducted at a secure test range on India’s eastern coast, with the missile successfully completing its planned trajectory and striking its designated target with high precision. Defence officials hailed the achievement as a testament to India’s growing technological self-reliance and innovation in the field of advanced weaponry.
India is expected to accelerate the development and deployment of the ET-LDHCM system. Plans are underway to integrate the missile with various platforms, including warships and strategic bombers, to ensure operational flexibility. Further tests will focus on refining guidance systems, expanding range, and enhancing survivability against electronic countermeasures.
India’s entry into the hypersonic missile club is likely to reshape the strategic balance in Asia, prompting regional powers to reassess their defense postures. The development also underscores India’s emergence as a leader in indigenous defense innovation and advanced military technology.