India Test Fires "Historic" Long-Range Hypersonic Missile

In a significant advancement for its defense capabilities, India has accomplished the first successful test of its long-range hypersonic missile, marking a notable entry into the elite group of nations with access to such sophisticated weaponry. The defense minister, Rajnath Singh, shared the news on Sunday, unveiling that the missile has the potential to hit targets up to 1,500 kilometers away. This missile, capable of carrying various types of warheads represents a leap in military technology for the country.

The Defence Ministry took to X to celebrate this milestone, stating, "India has crossed a major milestone with the successful test launch of the long-range hypersonic missile. The test was conducted at Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the Odisha coast. With this historic achievement, India has joined the select club of countries possessing cutting-edge military technology," accompanied by a video showcasing the missile's launch. The development of this missile was spearheaded by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), underscoring India's growing prowess in defense technology.

The missile's flight path was meticulously tracked through various stations, ensuring its trajectory was as planned. The DRDO confirmed that during the final phase of its flight, the missile achieved its target with remarkable precision. This successful test was carried out at Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island, previously known as Wheeler Island, located off the coast of Odisha. This site is renowned for being the launching pad for India's missile testing activities.

This breakthrough not only places India among a select group of nations capable of independently developing hypersonic technology but also boosts its strategic defense capabilities. The ability to strike targets at such long distances with high precision is a significant deterrent and enhances the country's security posture on the global stage.

The successful test of the long-range hypersonic missile marks a pivotal moment in India's defense history. It not only demonstrates the nation's advanced capabilities in missile technology but also its commitment to strengthening its defense infrastructure. This achievement is a testament to the expertise and dedication of India's defense scientists and engineers who continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in defense technology.