BrahMos eyes Hypersonic Future: Current version reaches Mach 6.5 speed while BrahMos-II(K) prepares for development

Source : IgMp Bureau

BrahMos Aerospace, a collaborative effort between India and Russia, has set forth an ambitious plan for the upcoming generation of BrahMos missiles. The BrahMos-II(K) initiative is poised to transform cruise missile technology, significantly outpacing the existing BrahMos in both speed and operational range.

The development of BrahMos will occur in two phases, each introducing a unique speed variant. The first phase, expected to conclude by 2026, aims for the BrahMos to reach near-hypersonic speeds of Mach 5. This initial model will employ an advanced ramjet engine, benefiting from the transfer of existing technologies from Russia. Sources indicate that BrahMos has already achieved successful laboratory tests exceeding Mach 6.5. While the maximum cruising speed may be just above Mach 5—officially classifying it as hypersonic—this version lays the groundwork for a genuinely hypersonic future.

The second phase of BrahMos-II(K) development, anticipated to commence in 2027, aspires for even greater achievements. This variant is likely to incorporate a scramjet engine, a technology currently under discussion with Russian partners. The design may draw inspiration from the scramjet engine used in Russia’s 3M22 Zircon hypersonic missile, which has the potential to reach a blistering Mach 7, with possibilities of extending to Mach 9.

Hypersonic BrahMos-II(K) scale model [File Photo]

While the Indian Tri-Services are not expected to fully replace the existing BrahMos due to financial constraints, the BrahMos-II(K) signifies a considerable advancement in offensive cruise missile capabilities. The BrahMos-II(K) will be deployable on frontline naval vessels, land-based mobile launch systems, and potentially even combat aircraft.

Although weight restrictions may prevent the development of an air-launched version of the BrahMos-II(K), BrahMos Aerospace is actively addressing this crucial segment. A separate initiative, known as BrahMos-NG (Next Generation), is currently under development. This Mach 3 air-launched cruise missile will be more compact and lightweight, making it suitable for a broader array of IAF fighter jets compared to the existing BrahMos-A, which is limited to specially modified Sukhoi-30MKIs.

The pursuit of BrahMos advancement does not stop with the BrahMos-II(K). Initiatives are also in progress to enhance the range of the current BrahMos missile to an impressive 800 km. Recent trials have already shown an extended range of 450 km, surpassing the original 290 km limit. By the end of 2024, BrahMos aims to achieve the full 800 km range without sacrificing its existing speed capabilities.

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