India to nearly triple range of hypersonic anti-ship missile

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is advancing plans to significantly enhance the capabilities of India's hypersonic anti-ship missile system, according to officials familiar with the development programme. The weapon, which has already demonstrated a range of 1,500 kilometres in previous tests, is slated for range extension to 3,500 kilometres through a series of additional trials.

Authorities indicate that two to three further test flights will be conducted to validate the extended range capability before the system moves toward production phase. The testing schedule is designed to ensure operational reliability and performance standards across the expanded operational envelope.

If timelines hold, the DRDO expects to secure production clearance during the 2028-29 fiscal period, paving the way for potential induction into India's defence arsenal. The hypersonic anti-ship missile programme is viewed as a strategic capability enhancement for India's maritime defence posture.

The development reflects India's broader efforts to strengthen indigenous defence technologies and reduce reliance on foreign procurement. Hypersonic weapons systems have become a priority focus for major defence establishments globally, with capabilities to travel at speeds exceeding five times the speed of sound.