India successfully tests its first hypersonic missile
Photo: India has developed its first long-range hypersonic missile which has successfully flown (Getty Images)
India successfully conducted flight tests of its first long-range hypersonic missile. The tests took place yesterday evening, November 16, according to the Indian Ministry of Defence website.
The tests were conducted by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The missile was launched from Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of the Indian state of Odisha.
It was tracked by various range systems deployed in multiple areas. Flight data collected from long-range naval stations confirmed the successful completion of terminal maneuvers and a high degree of accuracy in hitting the target.
This missile was developed in-house at the Dr. Abdul Kalam Missile Complex laboratories in Hyderabad, in collaboration with other DRDO laboratories and industrial partners.
"This hypersonic missile is designed to carry various payloads for ranges greater than 1,500 kms for the Armed Forces," the Defence Ministry website added.
Meanwhile, India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh posted on social media platform X, calling the flight test a historic achievement that has placed India among the select group of countries possessing such advanced and crucial military technologies. He congratulated DRDO, the armed forces, and the industry for successfully conducting the flight tests.
It is worth noting that on October 26, a working meeting took place between representatives of Ukraine and India. The two countries discussed opportunities for cooperation in the defense industry.
