India Successfully Test-Fires First Long-Range Hypersonic Missile

NEW DELHI — India has successfully tested its first long-range hypersonic missile, making it one of the few countries with this advanced technology. The test took place on Saturday night off the coast of Odisha, conducted by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

The missile, which can travel over 1,500 km, was developed by Indian scientists and engineers. According to the Ministry of Defence, the missile hit its target accurately, confirming its advanced capabilities.

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh called the test a “historic moment” for India, joining the U.S., China, and Russia in having hypersonic missiles. These missiles travel faster than five times the speed of sound (over 6,100 km per hour), making them harder to track and intercept.

Experts say the new missile will strengthen India’s defense, adding to its existing missile systems, like the Brahmos cruise missile and Agni-V intercontinental missile. The hypersonic missile gives India more confidence in its ability to defend against threats, especially from neighboring countries with advanced missile technology.