An extended-range variant of the widely acclaimed BrahMos missile, named Brahmos ER recently underwent trials, with both the land and air versions were tested ahead of their formal induction into the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The recent tests of the Brahmos missile have sparked immense curiosity about its operational range, as people are eager to ascertain the extent of its striking capabilities within enemy territory.
Brahmos missile
© AP Photo / MANISH SWARUP
Brahmos and Its Evolving Range
The original version of the Brahmos missile had a range of 290 km, which, combined with its supersonic speed of around 2.8 Mach (over 3,450 km/h), made it a highly effective weapon, according to military experts.
However, the ER versions of the missile are expected to have an extended range of up to 500 km.
Additionally, the extended-range Brahmos will also have a speed of 3 Mach (3,700 km/h), making it an undetectable weapon, at least for current air defence platforms, as per IAF veterans.
The rocket's manufacturer, BrahMos Aerospace, has also tested an 800km-range variant that it plans to mass produce for the South Asian country's air force.
This will significantly improve the IAF's firepower, allowing it to destroy distant targets without entering enemy airspace.
Supersonic BrahMos missiles are seen at the parliament house premises for an upcoming exhibition in New Delhi, India, Monday, Aug. 1, 2016.
© AP Photo / Manish Swarup
Brahmos - The Modern Brahmastra
"As one of our most lethal air combat assets, the BrahMos supersonic missile has really galvanised the way we will equip ourselves with precision firepower in the years to come. Looking at the conflicts taking place around the world," said IAF Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari earlier this year.
On the other hand, India's Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan dubbed Brahmos the Brahmastra of India's missile arsenal.
"Brahmos is truly a 'Brahmastra' of its time," Chauhan asserted during a public event in May this year.
According to Hindu religious scriptures, the Brahmastra is an irresistible celestial weapon that guarantees victory for its wielder on the battlefield.