Indigenous Hypersonic Glide Missile to Make Debut at Republic Day Parade, Can Strike Enemy Targets 1,500 km Away in 15 Minutes

India is set to showcase a major leap in its indigenous defence capabilities as the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) prepares to unveil its long-range anti-ship hypersonic glide missile for the first time during the 77th Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path.

Developed specifically for the Indian Navy, the Long-Range Anti-Ship Hypersonic Glide Missile (LRAShM) represents a significant milestone in India’s journey toward defence self-reliance and advanced military technology. With a striking range of approximately 1,500 kilometres, the missile is designed to dramatically enhance India’s maritime strike capability across the Indian Ocean Region.

According to DRDO officials, the hypersonic glide missile can reach speeds well beyond Mach 5, enabling it to evade enemy radar detection and interception systems. Capable of destroying targets at a distance of 1,500 km in less than 15 minutes, the missile is expected to pose a formidable challenge to adversarial naval forces.

Speaking to news agency ANI, DRDO Project Director A. Prasad Goud said the organisation is actively working on both hypersonic glide missile and hypersonic cruise missile technologies to meet the operational requirements of the Indian Navy. “The key advantage of this missile lies in its hypersonic speed, which makes it extremely difficult for enemy radars to detect or track,” he said.

The missile is designed to carry multiple types of payloads and is capable of neutralising a wide range of enemy warships, including aircraft carriers and advanced naval platforms. Its high manoeuvrability and superior aerodynamic performance further strengthen its effectiveness in complex maritime combat scenarios.

DRDO officials noted that hypersonic missile technology represents the future of warfare, and efforts are already underway to extend the missile’s range to between 3,000 and 3,500 kilometres. Advanced laboratory research continues to focus on enhancing glide vehicle performance, guidance systems, and propulsion technologies.

The public display of the hypersonic glide missile at the Republic Day parade is expected to send a strong message to the world about India’s growing defence prowess, technological sophistication, and commitment to safeguarding its maritime interests through indigenous innovation.