The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has initiated the development of a cutting-edge cruise missile system for the Indian Air Force (IAF), designed to fundamentally transform India’s air-launched strike capabilities.
This new weapon system, boasting a strike range of approximately 250 kilometres, represents a significant technological leap.
It is slated to be the first of its kind in the Indian inventory to merge the high-speed lethality of a traditional cruise missile with the enduring surveillance capabilities typically associated with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Revolutionary 'Loiter and Strike' Capability
According to defence sources, the defining feature of this missile is its ability to loiter over a designated target zone for an extended period after launch.Unlike conventional cruise missiles, which follow a pre-programmed flight path to strike a target immediately upon arrival, this next-generation system introduces a "man-in-the-loop" operational model.
Once the missile reaches the target area, it can orbit and transmit real-time visual intelligence back to the launch platform. This allows a Weapon Systems Officer (WSO)—seated in the launching fighter jet—to visually identify and confirm the target before authorising the final terminal dive.
This mechanism drastically reduces the risk of collateral damage and prevents friendly fire, offering commanders unprecedented control in dynamic and confused battlefield environments.
Technical Specifications and Modularity
The missile is being engineered to deliver a potent punch, carrying a minimum high-explosive warhead of 50 kilograms. This payload is sufficient to neutralise a wide spectrum of threats, from fortified bunkers to command centres.Furthermore, the system features a modular architecture that allows for the integration of diverse payloads.
Depending on the specific mission profile, the missile can be equipped with various sensors, including infrared seekers and advanced guidance packages, enabling it to adapt to different roles without the need for extensive structural redesigns.
Precision Guidance and Multi-Domain Utility
To ensure pinpoint accuracy over its 250-kilometre range, the missile utilises a hybrid guidance system combining Inertial Navigation Systems (INS) with GPS updates. This is complemented by onboard electro-optical sensors that facilitate the "loitering" phase and terminal guidance.The system is being developed as a multi-domain asset, capable of engaging both land-based and maritime targets.
This versatility makes it an ideal solution for precision strikes against high-value static land assets as well as moving targets at sea, such as enemy warships or logistics vessels.
The loitering capability is particularly advantageous in these scenarios, as it allows the missile to wait for concealed or time-sensitive targets to break cover before engaging.
Strategic Context
This development aligns with the broader Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, aiming to reduce dependency on foreign precision-guided munitions.By bridging the gap between standard cruise missiles and loitering munitions (often called "kamikaze drones"), the DRDO is providing the IAF with a flexible, standoff weapon that ensures pilot safety while maximising mission success rates in contested airspace.
