New Long range Hypersonic Cruise Missile to be tested soon
India will soon showcase its military technology with the test launch of the Extended Trajectory-Long Duration Hypersonic Cruise Missile (ET-LDHCM), developed under the classified Project Vishnu by DRDO. This missile will transform India’s strategic capabilities, by enabling rapid, precise, and deep strikes into territory of China in case it threatens India in any manner.
The ET-LDHCM uses an advanced indigenous technology, featuring a scramjet engine that allows it to reach and maintain hypersonic speeds of up to Mach 8 (approximately 11,000 km/h) for extended durations. This velocity, combined with its ability to fly at low altitudes and perform mid-flight manoeuvres, makes it nearly impossible for current radar and air defence systems to intercept. The missile boasts a range of 1,500 kilometres and can carry both conventional and nuclear warheads weighing between 1,000 and 2,000 kg, providing India with versatile options for strategic missions.
It has high Operational flexibility, as it can be launched from land, air, or sea platforms, significantly expanding India’s tactical and strategic reach and effectiveness against high-value targets such as enemy infrastructure, command centres, and naval assets. Unlike traditional ballistic missiles, which follow predictable trajectories, the ET-LDHCM’s ability to hug terrain and alter its course mid-flight enhances its survivability.
The missile is made of heat- and oxidation-resistant materials, enabling it to withstand extreme temperatures exceeding 2,000°C during hypersonic flight. This durability ensures reliable performance even in harsh operational environments, including exposure to seawater and intense sunlight.
The induction of the ET-LDHCM will place India among group of nations—namely the United States, China, and Russia—that possess operational hypersonic missile technology. This advancement is expected to bring huge parity to the global balance of power and bolster India’s deterrence posture, providing a credible counter to evolving threats in entire Asia, Indian Ocean Region and Indo Pacific.
Beyond its military applications, the development of hypersonic technology under Project Vishnu has broader implications. It is anticipated to drive innovation in aerospace, satellite launches, and disaster relief operations. The project has also catalysed participation from Indian micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), fostering domestic industry growth and generating employment opportunities.
The ET-LDHCM represents a transformative milestone for India’s defence sector, combining cutting-edge propulsion, materials science, and strategic versatility. Its successful deployment is expected to significantly enhance India’s military capabilities and influence the geopolitical landscape of the region.
