The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is reportedly looking at a longer-range version of India’s Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LR-AShM), according to sources cited by idrw.org.
The new version could have a range of around 3,500 km, compared with the reported 1,500 km range of the current version. If developed, it would give the Indian Navy a much longer reach against targets at sea.
The LR-AShM is a hypersonic missile being developed for the Indian Navy. It is designed to hit both moving and stationary targets.
To reach 3,500 km, the missile would need better propulsion, guidance, aerodynamics and heat protection. The missile would also need to maintain high speed for a much longer distance.
India’s NavIC navigation system could potentially be used along with advanced navigation technology to help guide the missile over long distances, including during electronic warfare.
A missile with a 3,500 km range could expand India’s maritime strike reach and strengthen its ability to keep enemy ships away from its coastline and strategic islands.
The future missile could work alongside existing systems such as BrahMos, offering India another long-range strike option.
However, the 3,500 km range has not been officially confirmed by DRDO. It should currently be seen as a reported development goal, and the missile would need extensive testing before becoming operational.
