BrahMos-II: India's Hypersonic Dagger ready to pierce the future
News
BrahMos-II: India's Hypersonic Dagger ready to pierce the future
BrahMos-II: India's Hypersonic Dagger ready to pierce the future
As a nation historically reliant on foreign technology, India's push for self-reliance through BrahMos-II is a matter of pride and strategic necessity.
India is on the verge of a game-changing moment in defense technology with the BrahMos-II, a hypersonic cruise missile aiming for speeds of Mach 7 to Mach 8—seven to eight times the speed of sound. This isn't just a missile; it's a bold statement of India's growing prowess in cutting-edge weaponry, powered by a homegrown scramjet engine. At a recent summit, Dr. Sudhir Kumar Mishra, former head of India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and BrahMos Aerospace, revealed a major milestone: a 1,000-second ground test of a scramjet engine combustor, conducted on April 25, 2025. This breakthrough puts India shoulder-to-shoulder with global powers like the U.S., Russia, and China in the hypersonic race.
As a nation historically reliant on foreign technology, India's push for self-reliance through BrahMos-II is a matter of pride and strategic necessity. This missile, expected to outpace its predecessor—the already formidable BrahMos, which zips at Mach 3.5—promises to be a global disruptor. But what makes this technology so special, and why should every Indian care? Let's break it down.
Ramjet vs. Scramjet: The Engines Powering the Future
To understand the hype around BrahMos-II, we need to talk about the engines behind it: ramjets and scramjets. Imagine a regular jet engine, like those on a passenger plane. It sucks in air, compresses it, mixes it with fuel, and ignites it to create thrust. Now, picture a ramjet, which is like a jet engine on steroids, designed for high speeds. It doesn't have moving parts like fans or compressors. Instead, it uses the sheer force of speeding through the air to compress it before burning fuel. Ramjets work well at supersonic speeds (above Mach 1), but they struggle beyond Mach 5.
Enter the scramjet—short for 'supersonic combustion ramjet.' This is the rockstar of engines for hypersonic speeds (Mach 5 and above). Unlike a ramjet, which slows down incoming air to subsonic speeds before burning it, a scramjet keeps the air moving supersonically even during combustion. This is incredibly tricky because air is rushing through at thousands of kilometers per hour, and you've got to ignite fuel in a split second. It's like lighting a match in a hurricane. Scramjets are lighter, more efficient, and capable of pushing vehicles to mind-boggling speeds, making them perfect for hypersonic missiles like BrahMos-II.
Why BrahMos-II Matters
The BrahMos-II isn't just about speed; it's about rewriting the rules of warfare. At Mach 7-8, it could travel 1,500 kilometers, striking targets with pinpoint accuracy before enemies have time to react. Current defense systems struggle to intercept missiles this fast, making BrahMos-II a potential game-changer in conflicts. Its predecessor, the BrahMos, is already the world's fastest supersonic cruise missile, trusted by the Indian Armed Forces and even exported to allies like the Philippines. With over 130 successful tests, the BrahMos program has earned a reputation for reliability, unlike cheaper but less dependable alternatives.
The recent 1,000-second scramjet test in Hyderabad is a big deal. Conducted by DRDO's Defence Research & Development Laboratory, it's reportedly the longest scramjet test ever, surpassing the U.S.'s X-51A Waverider, which flew for 240 seconds. This test proved India's scramjet can handle the extreme heat and stress of hypersonic flight, thanks to advanced cooling techniques, special ceramic coatings, and a unique fuel developed with Indian industries. These innovations mean India isn't just copying others—it's setting new benchmarks.
A Strategic Power Play
India's hypersonic ambitions are more than technological flexing; they're a strategic necessity. In a world where China and Pakistan are advancing their missile capabilities, BrahMos-II could tilt the balance in India's favor. Social media buzz on platforms like X suggests the missile could be ready in four years, offering a deterrent that's hard to match. Unlike Russia's Zircon missile, which may inspire BrahMos-II, India's version will rely on its own scramjet tech, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers—a key pillar of the 'Make in India' vision.
This push for self-reliance isn't just about defense; it's about global clout. Countries choosing BrahMos over competitors show trust in India's engineering. With orders for over 200 air-launched BrahMos-A missiles for the Indian Air Force and 220 for the Navy, the program is a cornerstone of India's military might. BrahMos-II could take this legacy further, fulfilling the dream of former President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam for India to lead in hypersonic technology.
The Road Ahead
India's hypersonic journey isn't without challenges. Developing scramjets requires mastering materials that can survive blistering temperatures and ensuring stable combustion at extreme speeds. Yet, DRDO's recent test shows India is on the right track. The government must now double down on funding and collaboration with private industries to keep the momentum going. Delays or budget cuts could risk falling behind in the global race.
BrahMos-II is more than a missile; it's a symbol of India's ambition to be a global superpower. It's about proving that a nation once underestimated can now set the pace in cutting-edge technology. As Dr. Mishra said, India doesn't settle for second-best—it builds the best. With BrahMos-II, India is not just catching up; it's aiming to lead. The world should take notice.
——- E.O.M
( Girish Linganna is an award-winning science communicator and a Defence, Aerospace & Geopolitical Analyst. He is the Managing Director of ADD Engineering Components India Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of ADD Engineering GmbH, Germany. Contact: girishlinganna@gmail.com )
For breaking news and live news updates, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram. Read more on Latest India News on India.com.
More Stories
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Hans India
19 minutes ago
- Hans India
Acer Inaugurates New Laptop Manufacturing Unit in Puducherry
Acer, the Taiwanese electronics major on Wednesday (August 13, 2025) increased Acer laptop manufacturing with the partnership with Plumage Solutions for manufacturing of IT hardware at a newly set up facility in Puducherry. The computer monitors, All in One (AIO) desktops, servers, workstations and power adapters are all going to be produced at the new plant. Acer's localisation move is intended to increase local production, reduce import dependence, and to meet the growing demand from urban and emerging markets the company further said. 'Facility in Puducherry will help increase supply chain efficiencies and enable faster deliveries, with competitive price points,' Plans are afoot to invest ₹50 crore in the next three to four years to augment Acer's manufacturing capabilities and widen the production portfolio in India, said a statement by The Plumage Group. Harish Kohli, President and Managing Director, Acer India, 'Teaming up with Plumage is a critical step towards bringing in international best practices, superior technology, and world-class manufacturing standards to local manufacturing. This partnership will allow us to create a robust and flexible supply chain, to serve the Indian market faster, and more efficiently.' ' We're pleased to mate with Acer in this new phase of India's manufacturing trip. This cooperation is further than a marketable arrangement it's a combined commitment to erecting a sustainable and encyclopedically competitive manufacturing ecosystem. By combining Acer's product moxie with our engineering & manufacturing capabilities, we aim to set new marks for quality, effectiveness, and invention in the assiduity, ' said Mukesh Gupta, Managing Director, Plumage Group. Opining on the collaboration Mukesh Gupta, Managing Director, The Plumage Group said, ' We're thrilled to join hands with Acer at this significant point in India's manufacturing trip. This cooperation is n't just a business adventure, it's a testament to our participated commitment towards erecting a sustainable, world- class manufacturing ecosystem. By combining Acer's product perceptivity with our engineering and product moxie, we aim to set new marks in quality, effectiveness and invention. '
The Hindu
19 minutes ago
- The Hindu
Omega Seiki Mobility plans to invest $25 million in plant at Jafza, Dubai
Omega Seiki Mobility (OSM), an Indian electric vehicle manufacturer, said it has set up its first international electric vehicle assembly plant in Jafza and would invest $25 million (AED 92 million) over the next five years to accelerate its global expansion and meet rising demand for low-emission transport in the region. Spanning over 42 000 square feet, the first EV plant in Jafza will assemble OSM's range of electric two-and three-wheelers as well as handle storage and distribution of auto components and spare parts, the company said. The facility is expected to commence assembly by the end of 2025. The plant will create over 100 jobs in its initial phase, it added. Abdulla Al Hashmi, COO, Parks & Zones, DP World GCC, said, 'More manufacturers are turning to Jafza to tap high-growth markets across the Middle East, Africa and beyond.' 'With the MENA EV market projected to reach $14.5 billion by 2029, driven by supporting government policies, rising demand and expanding infrastructure, this facility brings innovative mobility solutions closer to the region and underlines Dubai's role as a global hub for the automotive sector,' he said. Uday Narang, Founder and Chairman of Omega Seiki Mobility, said, 'Jafza gives us unmatched connectivity to more than 2 billion consumers and a business environment that enables speed, scale and sustainability.' 'Through Dubai, we aim to make clean mobility accessible and commercially viable for partners across the Middle East and Africa,' he said. While OSM's immediate focus is on electric vehicles, it also plans to introduce CNG- powered models for select African markets.
Hindustan Times
19 minutes ago
- Hindustan Times
How to claim your share of $4.5M GameStop data breach settlement. Details here
There are only a few days left to claim your share of a $4.5 million settlement with GameStop. This comes after a lawsuit said the company sold customers' personal data to Facebook without permission, according to WFFA. In June, GameStop emailed customers about the settlement. It denied wrongdoing but settled to avoid trial costs and risks.(REUTERS) The class action lawsuit said GameStop broke federal law, specifically the Video Privacy Protection Act, or VPPA. The company took customer data from purchases on its website and gave it to Facebook. GameStop did not admit to doing anything wrong as part of the settlement. The deadline to file a claim is Friday, August 15. Also Read: GameStop's wild ride has Indian retail traders joining in Who can get money from the GameStop settlement? Anyone who bought a video game from GameStop's website between August 18, 2020, and April 7, 2025, and had a public Facebook profile with their name at the time of purchase is eligible. In June, GameStop sent emails about the settlement to customers who bought games on their website. Although GameStop did not admit fault, it agreed to settle to avoid the costs and risks of continuing the lawsuit. If you got that email, you are likely part of the settlement group. How much money can you get? Eligible people can get either up to $5 in cash or a GameStop voucher worth up to $10. It is not clear how many people qualify for the settlement. How do you file a claim? First, check your email. The payments are linked to a unique ID number in the email from GameStop. This ID is a 10-character mix of letters and numbers. Anyone with this ID can file a claim before August 15 to get their payment. If you choose a voucher, the credit will be added to your GameStop account linked to your email. If you choose cash, you will get paid through Zelle, Venmo, or PayPal. If you did not get an email with an ID but believe you qualify, you can fill out a paper claim form. When will you get paid? Payments may take some time because they depend on court approval. A court hearing is scheduled for September 18, 2025. If approved, payments will be sent about 45 days after final approval or after any appeals are finished. Voucher payments will also be emailed about 45 days after final approval.
