India's next-generation BrahMos-NG missile program has reached a critical milestone with the finalization of its design blueprint. The program is now progressing towards the development phase, with trials anticipated to commence by late 2027 or early 2028.
This advancement signifies a major step in bolstering India's aerial strike capabilities with a versatile missile designed for deployment across a wider range of fighter jet platforms.
An official closely associated with the program revealed that "the project is progressing smoothly," and the focus is now shifting towards the development phase.
This phase will involve captive flight trials conducted by BrahMos Aerospace starting in 2026. "If integration and these captive flight trials are concluded smoothly, then the first developmental test firing could take place by 2027," the source added.
One of the key features of the BrahMos-NG is its reduced weight, meticulously managed to ensure compatibility with various fighter jets, including smaller aircraft.
The missile is expected to weigh between 1.3 to 1.4 tons, depending on the final configuration. This weight reduction, compared to the existing BrahMos variants, is crucial for its integration onto lighter platforms like the LCA-Tejas Mk1A.
While maintaining its supersonic edge, the BrahMos-NG is designed to achieve a speed of Mach 3.5, ensuring it remains one of the fastest cruise missiles in operation.
This enhanced speed, coupled with the missile's compact design, will not compromise its range, precision, or impact, making it a formidable addition to India's defence arsenal.
The planned integration of the BrahMos-NG on the Su-30MKI, which currently carries the larger BrahMos-A variant, is already underway. The NG version will provide added flexibility and reduce the weight burden on the aircraft.
Significantly, the BrahMos-NG will also be integrated onto smaller fighter platforms like the indigenous LCA Tejas Mk1A for the first time. This expands the missile's operational scope and enhances the Indian Air Force's strike capabilities across a wider range of aircraft.
