India's hypersonic interceptor for anti-ship ballistic missiles travelling at Mach 7

This advanced naval variant missile, part of the Long Range Surface-to-Air Missile (LRSAM) system, can target threats over 250 kilometers away. It aims to enhance the Indian Navy’s defenses against various aerial dangers.

This missile is part of Project Kusha, a plan that includes a suite of three long-range air defense missiles covering 150 km, 250-300 km, and 400 km. The project seeks to establish a comprehensive defense system similar to Russia’s S-400.

It is important to create defenses against Anti-Ship Ballistic Missiles (ASBMs), which are missiles that have been modified to target ships. This is crucial because the threat they pose to naval vessels is growing worldwide.

The urgent need for such technology stems from the increasing global threat presented by fast and devastating Anti-Ship Ballistic Missiles (ASBMs).

Notably, China has developed the DF-21D “carrier killer,” prompting nations like India to devise strategies to counter these formidable weapons.

These swift and formidable missiles now pose a grave danger to contemporary navies. Leading the charge in this development, China has pioneered Carrier-Killer ASBMs like the DF-21D, capable of striking aircraft carriers from considerable distances.

Recognizing the pivotal role these weapons play in warfare, countries such as Iran and the US have also created their own versions of these missiles.

A specialized iteration of the DF-21D missile is specifically designed to accurately target maritime threats, potentially jeopardizing US aircraft carriers positioned more than 1,000 miles (1,609 kilometers) away from the coast.

These advancements not only challenge US naval supremacy in the Western Pacific but also underscore the shifting strategies in contemporary military engagements.

In reaction to the increasing threat of Anti-Ship Ballistic Missiles (ASBMs), the Indian Navy is stepping up its efforts to strengthen its defenses against ballistic missile dangers.

Last year, the DRDO and Indian Navy conducted a successful test of the Naval Ballistic Missile Defense System, which can intercept nuclear missiles in space and within the Earth’s atmosphere, providing a strong defense at sea.

This successful trial showcased India’s ability to safeguard its naval resources from long-range missile risks, enhancing the overall safety of its maritime activities.

The Naval Ballistic Missile Defense system is tailored to tackle nuclear-equipped missiles and Anti-Ship Ballistic Missiles (ASBMs).

Similarly, the upcoming naval long-range surface-to-air missile will function like the American SM-6, with the ability to intercept aircraft from far away and intercept ballistic missiles as they near their targets.

This new missile will serve as a secondary defense against ballistic missiles, forming a thorough defense system with multiple layers of protection.

India’s dedication to safeguarding its maritime concerns is evident in the continuous progress of long-range air defense technologies.

These sophisticated missile systems will empower the Indian Navy to confront fast-moving threats posed by modern Anti-Ship Ballistic Missiles (ASBMs), safeguarding its fleet in challenging conditions.

Incorporating these systems into the navy’s defensive framework will boost its capacity to navigate contested waters, preserving its strategic edge.

The author of this article is a Defence, Aerospace & Political Analyst based in Bengaluru.