India Preparing To Test 1,500 Km-Range Hypersonic Cruise Missile

India is preparing to test a long-range hypersonic cruise missile developed under a classified Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) initiative known as ‘Project Vishnu’.

If successful, the test would mark a significant milestone in the country’s indigenous missile development programme.

Named the Extended Trajectory-Long Duration Hypersonic Cruise Missile (ET-LDHCM), the system reportedly reaches speeds up to Mach 8 or about 11,000 kmph and can carry conventional or nuclear warheads weighing up to 2,000 kg.

Its speed, altitude-hugging flight profile, and mid-air manoeuvrability are designed to evade modern radar and air defence systems, enabling deep strikes into adversary territory.

Powered by a scramjet engine that uses atmospheric oxygen to sustain high speeds, the missile marks a major propulsion breakthrough.

DRDO has already completed a successful 1,000-second ground test of the engine.

Unlike ballistic missiles, the ET-LDHCM flies at low altitudes and is capable of course correction mid-flight.

Built with heat- and oxidation-resistant materials, it can withstand extreme temperatures exceeding 2,000 degree celsius.

Designed for launch from land, sea, or air, the missile enhances India’s flexibility across strike platforms and mission types.

Once operational, it will place India among the handful of nations, including the US, China, and Russia, to field hypersonic weapon systems.