DRDO developing 1,500-km range RudraM-IV Hypersonic Air Launched Ballistic Missile (ALBM)
The Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) is advancing India’s defense capabilities with the development of the RudraM-IV, a hypersonic air-launched ballistic missile (ALBM) that boasts a 1,500-kilometer range and cutting-edge Precision Guidance and Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven pathfinding technology. Designed to deliver high-impact strikes against heavily fortified targets, this missile is virtually impossible to intercept, enhancing India’s strategic strike capabilities significantly.
The RudraM-IV’s advanced design enables quick loading onto the Indian Air Force’s Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jets, allowing for rapid deployment. This compatibility will bolster the Su-30MKI fleet’s striking range, particularly beneficial as these jets undergo the Super Sukhoi upgrade, positioning the Indian Air Force with unmatched aerial dominance and tactical versatility for future combat scenarios.
Similar to Russia’s Kinzhal hypersonic ALBM, the RudraM-IV is launched from a secure distance within Indian territory to target critical infrastructure deep within enemy borders, safeguarding both aircraft and pilots. With an expected speed between Mach 7-10, the missile allows minimal reaction time for enemy defense systems, posing a formidable threat to adversaries and rendering conventional air defense networks largely ineffective.
Observations from recent conflicts, such as the use of the Kinzhal hypersonic ALBM against Ukraine, have demonstrated the limitations of advanced Western defense systems like the PAC-III Patriot against such high-speed, low-altitude projectiles. The RudraM-IV’s design takes cues from these instances, aiming to ensure optimal penetration and impact even against well-defended enemy facilities.
The RudraM-IV joins the growing RudraM series, which currently includes the RudraM-I Anti-Radiation Missile, RudraM-II (an Air-to-Surface missile), and the RudraM-III ALBM. This missile series is expected to expand to additional fighter jet platforms in the Indian Air Force beyond the heavier Su-30MKI, broadening its operational scope over time.
This strategic expansion within the RudraM missile series aligns with India’s pursuit of self-reliance in critical defense technologies. It’s a goal championed by former DRDO scientists and top officials and supported under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative, a vision actively promoted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. With these advancements, India moves closer to achieving defense autonomy and ensuring robust national security through indigenous technology development.
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