How dangerous is the BrahMos destroyer missile? Production of the supersonic cruise missile 'BrahMos' has begun at Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh on Sunday. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also attended the function.
Key Features and Capabilities
- Speed: Operates at Mach 2.8, almost three times the velocity of sound
- Range: Can hit targets 290-400 km away, with variants with longer range going up to 500 km
- Launch Platforms: Can be launched from land, air, and sea, hence a force with versatility
- Guidance System: Follows a "fire and forget" system, hence can hit targets with accuracy while avoiding enemy radars
Risk Assessment
The BrahMos missile is a major threat to enemy forces because of its advanced technology and precision strike. But like any sophisticated system, it's not risk-free:
- Technical Risks: Problems in the propulsion system may result in failure, for instance, as occurred in 2021 with a test firing where the missile crashed soon after lift-off
- Operational Risks: Whether or not a missile is successful relies on various conditions, among them proper targeting and evading enemy defenses effectively
Recent Developments and Testing
- Successful Tests: Indian Navy has successfully tested the BrahMos missile from a warship in the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea, proving its effectiveness
- Extended-Range Variants: The Indian Army has conducted tests on extended-range BrahMos missiles with the ability to target up to 500 km away
Strategic Implications
The BrahMos missile is a prized possession of India's defense forces, offering a strong deterrent against the threat of attacks. Its versatility and precision strike features make it a useful instrument for a wide range of military activities.