BrahMos-NG Set For First Flight In 2026, Production To Begin By 2027-28
The BrahMos-NG (Next Generation) missile is slated for its first flight test
in 2026, with production expected to begin in 2027-28.
The BrahMos NG (Next Generation) missile is under development and is slated
for its first flight test in 2026, with production expected to begin in
2027-28. It is designed to be more compact and lightweight than its
predecessor, while retaining the same capabilities.
According to Jaiteerth R Joshi, Director General of BrahMos Aerospace, stated that they are developing state-of-the-art technologies to make the missile sleeker without compromising its effectiveness. BrahMos Aerospace has begun work on the BrahMos-LR (Long Range) variant, an iteration of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, which has an extended range of 800km while retaining its Mach 3 speeds. The BrahMos-LR's development marks overcoming constraints imposed by the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR). BrahMos was previously limited to a 290km range due to international agreements; however, by modifying software restrictions and expanding the internal fuel tank capacity, BrahMos Aerospace has pushed past these barriers.
Design And Development
The BrahMos NG weighs 1.6 tons and measures 6 meters in length, making it
smaller than the older version, which weighed 3 tonnes and was 9 meters
long. It will maintain a range of 290 kilometers and a speed of Mach 3.5.
The BrahMos-NG will have a reduced radar cross-section and an indigenous
seeker with an AESA radar, enhancing its precision and stealth capabilities.
The missile system will be able to fit on a wider array of platforms,
including the Russian-origin Sukhoi-30MKI fighter aircraft and India’s Light
Combat Aircraft (LCA) TEJAS.
There is expanding export potential for BrahMos-NG, with interest from
countries in Africa and West Asia. India has already supplied BrahMos
systems to the Philippines, and is in talks with Indonesia. Several African
and West Asian countries have expressed interest in the missile system.
India has already supplied three batteries of the BrahMos supersonic cruise
missile system to the Philippines. Talks are in progress with Indonesia,
with a potential deal estimated at USD 450 million. If finalised, Indonesia
would be the second ASEAN nation to buy the BrahMos missile system after the
Philippines.
The BrahMos NG is in advanced stages of development. It is designed to be more
compact and lightweight than its predecessor, while maintaining the same
capabilities. The missile will have a range of 290 km and a speed of up to
Mach 3.5. It will have a reduced radar cross-section and an indigenous seeker
with an AESA radar, enhancing its precision and stealth capabilities.
Comparative Analysis
| Feature | BrahMos (Original) | BrahMos NG (Next Generation) |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 3 tons | 1.5-1.6 tons |
| Length | 9 meters | 6 meters |
| Speed | Mach 3.52 | Mach 3.52 |
| Range | 290 km | 290 km |
| Radar Cross-Section (RCS) | Higher | Lesser |
| Radar | Mechanically scanned | AESA |
| Platform Compatibility | Limited | Wider array of platforms |
Platform Integration
The BrahMos-NG will be compatible with smaller delivery systems, including the
Russian-origin Sukhoi-30MKI fighter aircraft and India’s indigenously
developed Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas.
The Sukhoi Su-30MKI would be able to carry three missiles, while other combat
aircraft would carry one each.
Production And Testing
Captive flight trials are expected to begin in 2026. The first developmental
test firing could take place by 2027 if integration and captive flight trials
are concluded smoothly.
Agencies
