Context:
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) will showcase the Long Range Anti-Ship Hypersonic Missile (LR-AShM) at the 77th Republic Day Parade (2026), underlining India’s advances in indigenous missile technology.
Key Highlights:
Missile Features
- LR-AShM is a hypersonic glide missile capable of targeting static and moving naval targets.
• Travels at speeds exceeding Mach 5.
• Designed for high precision and enhanced maneuverability.
• Missile and launcher to be displayed at Kartavya Path.
Strategic Significance
- Strengthens maritime strike capability.
• Enhances naval deterrence in the Indo-Pacific.
• Boosts India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence manufacturing.
Scientific Concepts
- Hypersonic Speed – Above Mach 5 (five times the speed of sound).
• Glide Missile Technology – Re-enters atmosphere and glides toward target, making interception difficult.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- DRDO is under the Ministry of Defence.
• Hypersonic missiles are difficult to intercept due to speed + maneuverability.
• India is part of a small group developing hypersonic technologies.
• Republic Day parade showcases major indigenous defence systems.
Relevant Mains Points:
- Internal Security & Defence (GS 3)
• Enhances sea-denial capabilities against adversaries.
• Critical for protecting Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs). - Science & Technology (GS 3)
• Advancement in propulsion, materials science, and guidance systems.
• Strategic deterrence in an era of missile defence systems.
Way Forward
- Accelerate hypersonic R&D.
• Integrate with naval operational doctrines.
• Strengthen export potential under defence diplomacy.
UPSC Relevance:
GS 3 – Defence Technology, Internal Security
Prelims – Hypersonic technology concepts