BrahMos-NG

Context

The BrahMos missile system, a key component of India’s precision-strike arsenal, is being upgraded. Two parallel developments are ongoing which includes BrahMos-NG (Next Generation): A lighter, compact air-launched version and Extended-range BrahMos: Range increased from 290 km to 450 km, with work in progress to achieve 800 km.

BrahMos-NG (Next Generation):

Key Features

Development Status: It is currently under advanced stages of development; flight testing expected within one to two years.
Weight and Dimensions:
- It is significantly lighter than the existing air-launched BrahMos.
- It is expected to weigh approximately half as much as the current version.
Compatibility:
- It is designed for integration with a wider range of fighter aircraft, including LCA Tejas, Rafale, and MiG-29.
- Intended to be carrier-friendly due to its compact size.
Enhanced Capabilities: It will retain supersonic speed while offering better maneuverability, ease of deployment, and reduced radar signature.

Strategic Implication:

It will enable wider deployment across fighter fleets, even on smaller aircraft like the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA).
It enhances air strike capability without compromising speed or precision.

BrahMos Supersonic Cruise Missile: Key Features

Type of Missile: Supersonic cruise missile capable of precision strikes on land and sea-based targets.
Development: Jointly developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyeniya under the joint venture BrahMos Aerospace.
Etymology: The name "BrahMos" is derived from two rivers — the Brahmaputra of India and the Moskva of Russia.
Speed: Travels at a speed of Mach 2.8 to Mach 3.0, making it one of the fastest cruise missiles in operational deployment.
Range:
- Initially limited to 290 km due to India’s commitment to the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR).
- Post India’s entry into the MTCR in 2016, the range has been extended to 450 km.
Launch Platforms:
- Land-based mobile autonomous launchers
- Naval ships (vertical launch systems)
- Submarines (underwater launch capabilities tested)
- Aircraft (e.g., Su-30MKI fighter jets of the Indian Air Force)
Warhead Type: Capable of carrying conventional warheads weighing approximately 300 kg.
Guidance System: Uses inertial navigation systems (INS) integrated with satellite-based navigation (e.g., GPS, GLONASS).
Operational Status: Fully inducted into the Indian Armed Forces and actively deployed by the Army, Navy, and Air Force.