One Strike, Whole Country in Range-New 800 km BrahMos Alarms Neighbours

The New BrahMos Variant’s Range Covers All of Pakistan: India is planning to put into service an 800 km range version of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile in the next two years to enhance its precision strike capability. Currently the operational range of BrahMos is about 450 kilometers; an 800 km version is in the testing phase, and updates are being made to the ramjet motor and guidance system. 

A new challenge

As per the development and integration framework, the long-range version will be deployed first on land and naval platforms with priority, while the air-launched variant will take more time. The ability to strike at longer ranges will allow defense forces to conduct standoff strikes, meaning the launching platform will be able to strike precise targets with less risk. This change will impact both regional strategy and deterrence capability. 

However, experts indicate that reaching the target of “full inclusion in two years” may face challenges such as testing, certification, production, and platform integration. So it would be better to see it as a planned action until the official test report and Defense Ministry's confirmation come.

what will be changed

• Modifications to the ramjet engine for range extension and fuel and weight management are underway. 
• There is an emphasis on INS-GNSS matching and jamming resistance for navigation and terminal guidance to maintain accuracy. 
• Existing shipborne and land-launcher systems will require software and fire-control updates. 

Strategic implications

The 800 km range BrahMos gives India the option of controlled destruction of targets from greater distances. This could have a decisive impact in both maritime and land theaters and would also be a decisive neutrality signal to regional rivals. Nevertheless, while using it, it will be mandatory to keep in mind the rules, identification of targets, and civil impacts.