India has executed its first experimental launch of a hypersonic missile. The projectile was launched yesterday, Saturday, from Abdul Kalam Island in Odisha. India’s Defense Minister Rajnath Singh disclosed this information in a statement today, Sunday.
Hypersonic missiles represent cutting-edge weaponry utilizing state-of-the-art technology. These armaments can traverse at extremely low atmospheric altitudes and are substantially more challenging to detect via radar compared to conventional ballistic missiles. Additionally, these missiles can rapidly engage targets and possess the capability to modify their trajectory mid-flight if necessary.
The United States, Russia, China, and North Korea have already conducted hypersonic missile tests. India has now joined this elite consortium. In today’s statement, Rajnath Singh proclaimed, “India has achieved a significant milestone through the successful experimental launch of the long-range hypersonic missile.”
Recently, China showcased its advanced arsenal at an exhibition, featuring the stealth-capable J-35A combat aircraft and various combat-oriented unmanned aerial vehicles. The exhibition also marked the debut of the HQ-19 missile system, engineered specifically to neutralize ballistic missiles and hypersonic vehicles.
In recent years, New Delhi has intensified its defense cooperation with Western nations. The country is a member of the Quad alliance alongside the United States, Japan, and Australia. Furthermore, India remains a substantial procurer of Russian armaments. Despite the threat of U.S. sanctions, they have acquired the S-400 air defense system from Russia, valued at several billion dollars.
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