The BrahMos Missile is a remarkable achievement in the field of missile technology. Developed jointly by India and Russia, this medium-range supersonic cruise missile has the capability to strike targets with precision. Let’s delve into the specifics of this powerful weapon system.
What is BrahMos Missile?
The BrahMos Missile is a supersonic cruise missile designed for both land and naval deployment. It can be launched from various platforms, including ships, submarines, aircraft, and ground-based mobile autonomous launchers (MALs). The missile is stored and transported in a Transport-Launch Canister (TLC), which also serves as a storage and transport container.
Key Specifications
Type: Supersonic cruise missile
Origin: Jointly developed by India and Russia
In Service: Since November 2006
Primary Users: Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force
Variants: Ship-launched, surface-launched, submarine-launched, air-launched, BrahMos-II
Weight: 3,000 kg (2,500 kg for air-launched variant)
Length: 8.4 meters
Diameter: 0.6 meters
Warhead: 200 kg (conventional semi-armour-piercing and nuclear)
Engine:
- First stage: Solid propellant booster
- Second stage: Liquid ramjet
Speed: Mach 2.8 to Mach 3 (approximately three times the speed of sound)
Range: 300–500 km
Guidance System: Inertial navigation, active radar homing, terminal guidance using GPS/GLONASS/Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS)/Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) based guidance123
Deployment and Capabilities
- The BrahMos Missile can be launched from land-based mobile launchers, warships, submarines, and combat aircraft.
- It is highly maneuverable during flight, making it difficult for enemy radar systems to track.
- The missile’s precision strike capability ensures effective target elimination.
- BrahMos has been successfully tested and deployed by the Indian armed forces, bolstering India’s missile technology leadership.
Conclusion
The BrahMos Missile stands as a testament to India’s technological prowess and strategic collaboration with Russia. Its supersonic speed, versatility, and accuracy make it a formidable weapon system. As we continue to advance in missile technology, the BrahMos remains a symbol of India’s commitment to national security and defense.
