Latest news with #BrahMos-NG
India.com
3 days ago
- Business
- India.com
What is ULRA? Game-changer bomber of India that could target US without refueling, can carry deadly missiles like...
New Delhi: After Operation Sindoor, India has intensified its efforts to strengthen country's defense capabilities. India is now reportedly laying groundwork for a bomber that can hit targets over 12,000 kilometres away. Defense analysts are of the opinion that this project, called the Ultra Long-Range Strike Aircraft (ULRA), will give a major boost to the Indian Air Force. It is important to note that India' neighbour China is moving fast with H-20, while the US holds an edge with its B-2 Spirit and the incoming B-21 Raider. Talking to The Economic Times, a senior Air Force official said, 'Our nuclear triad covers land and sea well, but we need a platform that can strike anywhere from the skies too.' Russian TU-160 'Blackjack' Notably, the world's heaviest and fastest supersonic bomber is with Russia, the TU-160 'Blackjack'. Its range is about 12,300 kilometres and it can carry up to 40 tons. One DRDO engineer said, 'We are looking at the TU-160 as a regional model and adapting what suits our needs best.' According to the reports, India's own version may use a swing wing design. This will help the wings to change shape in flight to save fuel and control speed more efficiently over long distances. Going further than the B-21 Raider India wants its bomber to fly past the Northrop Grumman's B-21 Raider which should clock around 9,300 kilometres. Over 9,300 kilometres means it could reach targets in the US, Europe, Africa or Australia without refuelling. The plan also includes radar dodging features, stealth technology and automated flight systems. BrahMos-NG: A key highlight is its planned weapon load — the bomber is expected to carry up to four BrahMos-NG missiles. Each missile has a range of 290 to 450 kilometers and can target enemy airfields, radar stations, command centers, or nuclear facilities within minutes. 'We also expect short-range ballistic weapons like the Agni-1P, laser bombs and anti-radiation missiles to be part of the final payload,' a senior DRDO official said to Economic Times. The Modi government, along with the DRDO, HAL and the Aircraft Development Agency are leading the charge. According to the reports, the talks on technology are open with Russia and France for transfer deals. One key piece is the engine. Engineers might adapt the GE-414 or Russia's NK-32 to fit the power and range needed.
Time of India
4 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
India's new 12,000 km bomber could reach New York without refueling with BrahMos missiles onboard
India is laying groundwork for a bomber that can hit targets over 12,000 kilometres away. This marks a sharp turn in defence policy, from regional focus to intercontinental reach . Defence analysts say this project, called the Ultra Long-Range Strike Aircraft (ULRA), could be a game changer for the Indian Air Force . The Defence Ministry says modern warfare now cuts across cyber, space and long-range air strikes . China's H-20 is moving fast, while the US holds an edge with its B-2 Spirit and the incoming B-21 Raider. A senior Air Force official said, 'Our nuclear triad covers land and sea well, but we need a platform that can strike anywhere from the skies too.' Explore courses from Top Institutes in Select a Course Category Degree Cybersecurity Leadership Others Design Thinking MBA Healthcare Product Management Artificial Intelligence Project Management MCA CXO PGDM Data Science Digital Marketing Operations Management Public Policy Data Analytics others Management Technology Data Science healthcare Finance Skills you'll gain: Data-Driven Decision-Making Strategic Leadership and Transformation Global Business Acumen Comprehensive Business Expertise Duration: 2 Years University of Western Australia UWA Global MBA Starts on Jun 28, 2024 Get Details Lessons from the Russian TU-160 'Blackjack' The Russian TU-160 'Blackjack' remains the world's heaviest and fastest supersonic bomber. Its range is about 12,300 kilometres and it can carry up to 40 tons. One DRDO engineer said, 'We are looking at the TU-160 as a regional model and adapting what suits our needs best.' India's own version may use a swing wing design. This lets the wings change shape in flight to save fuel and control speed more efficiently over long distances. Going further than the B-21 Raider Northrop Grumman's B-21 Raider should clock around 9,300 kilometres. India wants its bomber to fly past that limit. That means it could reach targets in the US, Europe, Africa or Australia without refuelling. Live Events The plan includes stealth technology, radar dodging features and automated flight systems. The aim is clear: stay hidden, reach far, hit hard. BrahMos-NG: Main weapon in the arsenal One standout detail is its planned weapon load. The bomber will likely carry up to four BrahMos-NG missiles . Each can fly between 290 and 450 kilometres and strike enemy airfields, radars, command hubs or nuclear facilities in minutes. A senior DRDO official said, 'We also expect short-range ballistic weapons like the Agni-1P, laser bombs and anti-radiation missiles to be part of the final payload.' Where will the technology come from Building this from scratch is no small task. The government, DRDO, HAL and the Aircraft Development Agency are leading the charge. Technology talks are open with Russia and France for transfer deals. One key piece is the engine. Engineers might adapt the GE-414 or Russia's NK-32 to fit the power and range needed. What this means for India's defence A bomber that can fly this far changes the map. It gives India global strike options, stronger nuclear second-strike power and more leverage in the Indo-Pacific. The Defence Ministry expects the first prototype to fly sometime between 2032 and 2035. While the design work is still early, dummy models and initial research have begun. This new project shows India is thinking beyond self-reliance and regional balance. It reflects an ambition to back up its nuclear triad with a credible airborne platform. For a country that once focused mainly on border conflicts, this is a step into a much wider arena. In simple terms, India's message is clear. It wants to be ready, anywhere, any time.
News18
10-07-2025
- Business
- News18
Cheaper Than Rafale And F-35, Armed With BrahMos: Tejas Mk1A To Get Rs 60,000 Crore Lift
Last Updated: The Air Force may order 97 more Tejas Mk1A jets, boosting the fleet to 180, strengthening indigenous defence production and enhancing deterrence against enemies In response to growing threats from Pakistan and China, India launched Operation Sindoor after the Pahalgam attack. Turkey has joined the list of adversaries, accused of aiding Pakistan with drones and weapons. Adding to concerns, a Turkish defence firm reportedly plans to invest in Bangladesh, now under an interim government seen as hostile to India. Amid these rising threats, India is rapidly modernising its military. The Army, Navy, and Air Force are upgrading with advanced rifles, tanks, drones, warships, and submarines. The Air Force is set to sign a Rs 60,000 crore deal with HAL for new fighter jets, following a 2021 order of 83 Tejas Mk1A jets worth Rs 48,000 crore. Despite delays caused by US manufacturer General Electric's (GE) engine supply issues, HAL is expected to begin deliveries of these fourth generation fighter jets by 2025, aided by a new production line in Nashik. Currently, the Air Force requires 41 to 42 squadrons to secure border areas but has only 31. With Pakistan set to acquire fifth-generation aircraft from China, India's strategic position could be compromised without prompt action. New Tejas Mk1A Deal Under Review The Air Force is considering ordering 97 additional Tejas Mk1A jets, potentially enhancing its fleet to 180 in this category, thereby strengthening indigenous fighter jet production and deterring enemy advances. The 2021 deal to supply 83 Tejas Mk1A fighter jets remains incomplete due to delays by GE in delivering engines. However, HAL Chairman and MD DK Sunil has stated that if the Air Force places an additional order for 97 jets, the delivery can be completed by 2031. The proposal is currently under review by the Defence Procurement Committee. HAL aims to produce 30 Tejas Mk1A jets annually from 2027, supported by GE's plan to set up a jet engine manufacturing unit in India through a partnership. Power Of BrahMos-NG The Tejas Mk1A will be a significant upgrade over previous fighter jets, featuring an advanced AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radar system and plans to integrate the new-generation BrahMos cruise missile and Astra Mk-2 missile. The BrahMos-NG is more advanced than the current version, with a longer range. A hypersonic version is also reportedly in development, promising even greater speed. Powered by General Electric's F404-IN20 engine, the Tejas Mk1A will have a combat radius of 500 km, enabling it to strike targets without crossing enemy borders. Cheaper Than Rafale And F-35 Furthermore, the Defence Department is contemplating the acquisition of fifth-generation stealth fighter jets, an expensive endeavour but necessary to maintain strategic parity with China and Pakistan. However, when it comes to cost, the indigenous Tejas Mk1A is significantly more economical. Priced at Rs 618 crore per unit (Rs 60,000 crore for 97 jets), it is far cheaper than the Rafale. India signed a deal with French defence firm Dassault for 36 Rafale jets at a cost of Euro 7.87 billion (approximately Rs 78,998 crore at current rates), making the per-unit cost around Rs 2,194 crore. The fifth-generation F-35 stealth fighter jet is priced between $80 million and $110 million, translating to around Rs 942 crore per unit. In comparison, the indigenous Tejas Mk1A, at Rs 618 crore per jet, is significantly more cost-effective than both the Rafale and the F-35. view comments Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
20-06-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Hypersonic missiles, next-gen BrahMos, new air defence: DRDO chief reveals long list of India's future-ready weapons
India is advancing a wide range of indigenous defence technologies including hypersonic missiles , long-range air defence systems, and next-generation fighter aircraft, according to Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat. In an interview to NDTV, Dr. Kamat outlined DRDO 's current and future projects that aim to enhance India's strategic deterrence and battlefield capabilities across air, land, and sea. BrahMos and its smaller successor A key focus area is the BrahMos missile , co-developed with Russia and currently launched from Su-30MKI fighter jets. To increase deployment flexibility, DRDO is working on BrahMos-NG, a next-generation variant designed to fit into more fighter platforms. BrahMos-NG is lighter and smaller, allowing wider deployment across India's air fleet. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Air conditioners without external unit. (click to see prices) Air Condition | Search Ads Search Now Undo India's hypersonic weapons programme India is also developing two types of hypersonic weapons — a cruise missile and a glide vehicle. The glide vehicle project is at a more advanced stage. Dr. Kamat said, 'We should be able to complete developmental trials in two to three years and then we can go for induction.' For the hypersonic cruise missile, scramjet propulsion has already been successfully tested for 1,000 seconds. Full-scale development awaits government approval. Once cleared, it may take five to seven years to reach operational status. Live Events Air-to-air and air-to-ground missile upgrades DRDO is extending its missile capabilities with new variants of the Astra air-to-air missile. The existing Mk-1 is in service, while Mk-2 and Mk-3 with longer range are under development. Meanwhile, the Rudram series of air-to-ground missiles is being upgraded. Rudram-2, Rudram-3, and Rudram-4 are in different stages of development. Surface-to-air defence and anti-drone technologies Under the Kusha programme, India is developing long-range surface-to-air missiles to match capabilities like the Russian S-400. The system is internally known as 'Sudarshan Chakra'. In parallel, DRDO is also developing directed energy weapons including high-powered lasers and microwave systems to neutralise drones and other aerial threats. Mobile artillery and light tanks India's indigenously developed Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) is being adapted into a mobile version. Last year, the government approved a proposal for 814 truck-mounted, self-propelled 155mm gun systems costing around ₹15,000 crore. Apart from defence PSUs, private firms like Tata, L&T, Bharat Forge , and Mahindra Defence have been approached for participation. Dr. Kamat also shared details about the light tank project named Zorawar. Built with L&T for high-altitude deployment along the border with China, the 25-tonne tank is expected to see 354 units inducted by the Indian Army. Naval weapons nearing induction For the Indian Navy, DRDO is developing torpedoes, naval mines, and other undersea warfare technologies. Dr. Kamat said many of these systems are 'close to induction,' signalling near-term deployment of several indigenous maritime platforms. Fifth-generation fighter response to China-Pakistan axis Dr. Kamat commented on reports that Pakistan may receive 40 J-35 stealth aircraft from China by next year. India's response is the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft ( AMCA ), which received formal sanction in 2024. In a previous interview, Dr. Kamat said, 'The AMCA will take 10 years to complete and would be ready by 2035.' According to an Economic Times report, the Indian Air Force is expected to procure six squadrons — around 120 aircraft. Unlike the Tejas programme where HAL led manufacturing, AMCA will follow a new production model. The government has issued an expression of interest to bring in either HAL, a private firm, or a public-private joint venture as the lead production partner. Lessons from recent operations Dr. Kamat stressed the need for future weapons to operate without external support. Citing lessons from Operation Sindoor, he said, 'All weapons must function without GPS or communication,' highlighting DRDO's focus on autonomous systems that can work in electronically denied environments. India's defence strategy is moving towards greater self-reliance and operational flexibility through indigenous technologies. The DRDO's ongoing work across multiple platforms reflects a long-term commitment to building modern, multi-domain defence capabilities.
India.com
02-06-2025
- Politics
- India.com
New generation BrahMos missile deadlier than before, can hit any target in Pakistan in just…, strike range of…
New generation BrahMos missile deadlier than before, can hit any target in Pakistan in just…, strike range of… During this operation, the BrahMos missile played an important role. By Tahir Qureshi Edited by Tahir Qureshi Advertisement New Delhi: Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor on late evening of May 6 against terrorists and their infrastructure across the LoC and the international border of Pakistan to avenge the cowardly and dastardly Pahalgam terror attack of April 22, in which 26 people were killed. The Indian Armed Forces killed over 100 terrorists and destroyed their launch pads apart from many air bases of Pakistan and inflicted heavy damage on their military capabilities. Advertisement === During this operation, the BrahMos missile played an important role as it struck deep inside the enemy territory and destroyed strategic targets with high precision. The BrahMos is a long-range supersonic cruise missile that can be launched from submarines, ships, or fighter aircraft. It is a joint venture between the Indian Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Russian Federation's NPO Mashinostroyeniya, who together have formed BrahMos Aerospace. The name BrahMos is a portmanteau formed from the names of two rivers, the Brahmaputra of India and the Moskva of Russia. Advertisement === Now, India is working on developing the next generation of BrahMos missiles which would be even more advanced in terms of speed, range, accuracy, and speed. According to reports, the work is on for BrahMos 2.0 or BrahMos-NG (Next Generation), a next-generation version of the powerful BrahMos missile. The report says that it will have a strike range beyond the current 600 km. Currently the BrahMos is launched from the Sukhoi-30 MKI fighter jet. Efforts are being made to make it compatible with other aircraft. The BrahMos-NG (Next Generation) is speculated to weigh around 1,300 kg. It is expected to attach four missiles to the Sukhoi and two missiles to the Tejas fighter jet. How quickly can it reach Pakistan? BrahMos 2 could reach speeds of Mach 6, which is about 7408 kmh. It means that the missile could cover the distance between Delhi and Nur Khan Airbase in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, which is around 640 km, in just over five minutes. India is also testing a submarine-launched version of BrahMos, enabling underwater launches.
