Long Range Anti-Ship Hypersonic Missile (LR-AShM)

Why in News?

The Long-Range Anti-Ship Hypersonic Missile (LR-AShM) was publicly showcased during the 77th Republic Day Parade (26 January 2026) by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) at Kartavya Path, New Delhi.

Description:

About LR-AShM:

Developer & Role:

• Developed by DRDO to strengthen India’s maritime and coastal defence, with a primary role of engaging high-value naval targets, including surface warships.
• Technology: LR-AShM is a hypersonic glide missile, designed to operate at hypersonic speeds (Mach 5 and above).
• Maneuverability: The missile is designed for high maneuverability during flight, enhancing survivability against air-defence and interception systems.

Key Specifications:

• Range: Approximately 1,500 km, as reported during its public display.
• Speed: Classified as hypersonic.
• Targeting: Designed to strike both static and moving naval targets.
• Platforms: Configured for land-based, truck-mounted coastal battery deployment.
• Payload: Capable of carrying conventional warheads. (No official disclosure on nuclear capability.)
• Materials: Incorporates advanced thermal protection and heat-resistant materials required for sustained hypersonic flight.

Operational Significance:

• Sea Denial: Enhances India’s sea-denial and coastal defence capabilities in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
• Technological Advancement: Represents a significant step in India’s indigenous hypersonic weapons development.
• Strategic Deterrence: Strengthens India’s ability to counter advanced naval platforms and area-denial strategies through speed and maneuverability.

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