India has some of the world’s most advanced weapons programs, driven by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and private industry, that are rapidly advancing indigenous defence capabilities and taking India towards self-reliance.
Key programs include the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, Agni Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM), and the two-tiered Ballistic Missile Defence system, placing India among the top global military technology powers.
India ran an Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP) to build basic capabilities and create a technology development launch pad. The Astra air-to-air missile (AAM) program will soon have world-class variants.
India’s indigenous surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems include the versatile Akash series for medium-range defence, as well as specialized systems for short-range and quick-reaction needs.
Key systems include the Akash (45km range) and the upgraded Akash-NG (70km), as well as emerging projects such as the VSHORAD and QRSAM, designed to protect against aircraft, drones, and cruise missiles.
Ship-borne VL-SRSAM (Vertical Launch Short Range Surface-to-Air Missile), short-range SAMAR Air Defence System, and Anant Shastra (30 km) are some others.
India also developed a diverse, largely indigenous, and increasingly advanced array of military radars developed by DRDO and BEL for surveillance, tracking, and fire control across land, air, and sea. Key systems include the Swordfish (ballistic missile defense), Swathi (weapon locating), Arudhra & Ashwini (3D surveillance), and the Uttam AESA radar for fighter jets.
By when can India become reasonably self-sufficient in missiles and radars? Where does it stand compared to other world-class equivalents?
Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP)
The IGMDP was India’s ambitious, indigenous effort starting in the 1980s, led by Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, “Missile Man of India”, to achieve self-reliance in missile technology.
Managed by DRDO, it successfully developed strategic missiles and significantly advanced India’s defence capabilities, though it faced challenges such as technical complexities and cost overruns.
The objective was to create a comprehensive range of missiles to meet India’s defence needs, reduce reliance on foreign technology, and enhance national security and deterrence.
The program focused on five core systems: the “Prithvi” surface-to-surface tactical missile (SSM); the Agni surface-to-surface strategic missile (longer range); the Trishul short-range SAM; the Akash medium-range SAM; and the Nag anti-tank guided missile (ATGM). The program conferred significant capabilities and technological prowess, making India a major missile power and culminating in advanced missiles such as Agni-V and BrahMos.
With its objectives largely met, the IGMDP was wound down in 2008, and India transitioned to more advanced missile programs.
Agni Missile Program
The Agni missile program is India’s premier long-range, nuclear-capable surface-to-surface ballistic missile series. It provides a critical deterrent with missiles ranging from 700 km to over 5,000 km.
The missiles are solid-fuelled, road-mobile, and designed for high precision, with later versions featuring canisterization for faster launch capabilities. The Agni-V and beyond provide ICBM capabilities, capable of carrying Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicles (MIRVs).
The Agni missile variants are Agni-I (700-800 km, short-range, single-stage missile); Agni-II (2,000+ km medium-range, two-stage missile); Agni-III (3,000+ km intermediate-range, heavier payloads); Agni-IV (3,500+ km, modern avionics, road-mobile); Agni-V (5,000+ km ICBM, three-stage solid propellant); Agni-P (Prime) (1,000-2,000 km, advanced next-gen, canister-based) are all operational.
Agni-VI is under development and will have a range of nearly 12,000 km and an enhanced payload. The program has put India in an elite group with advanced, long-range, and MIRV-capable strike capabilities.
Countries with operational ICBMs (range 5,500+) include the United States, Russia, China, India, France, the United Kingdom, and North Korea, with some sources also mentioning Israel, while other nations like Iran possess long-range missiles but don’t have nuclear warheads.
India’s Indigenous Tactical SSM
India has developed a robust arsenal of indigenous tactical SSMs to ensure battlefield dominance and credible deterrence. These systems focus on high precision, quick reaction times, and the ability to carry conventional or tactical nuclear warheads.
The “Prithvi” series includes Prithvi-I (150 km for Army), and Prithvi-II (350 km), single-stage liquid-fuelled missile used primarily by the Indian Air Force (IAF).
“Dhanush” (1,000Kg, 750 km) is a ship-launched, sea-worthy version of the Prithvi missile. Shaurya is a canister-launched hypersonic surface-to-surface missile capable of manoeuvring at speeds above Mach 5, offering a rapid strike capability.
“Pralay” (150–500 km) is a canisterised, solid-fuel, battlefield missile developed to replace older tactical systems like the Prithvi. “Prahaar” (150 km) is a quick-reaction, all-weather, high-precision missile to fill the gap between multi-barrel rocket systems and long-range ballistic missiles.
The operational focus is on “cold start” capabilities, rapid, high-accuracy strikes in low-intensity conflicts. Transitioning from liquid to solid fuel for faster deployment and enhanced stealth in cruise missiles.
BrahMos Variants
The BrahMos is a long-range, ramjet-powered supersonic cruise missile that can be launched from submarines, ships, and fighter aircraft. It is among the world’s fastest cruise missiles, operating at Mach 2.8.
It is a joint venture between India’s DRDO and the Russian Federation’s NPO Mashinostroyeniya, which together have formed BrahMos Aerospace.
The missile is based on P-800 Oniks. Land-launched, ship-launched, and air-launched versions have been inducted across the Indian Armed Forces. The missile guidance has been developed by BrahMos Aerospace.
In 2016, after India joined the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), the missile’s range was gradually increased. The future hypersonic missile (Mach 8), designated as the BrahMos-II, is based on the Russian 3M22 Zircon.
Ship- or Land-based missiles have a range of 800–900 km, air-launched missiles have a range of 450–500 km, and the export variant has a range of 290 km. Accuracy is less than 1 m CEP. 1500 km-plus range missiles are evolving.
BrahMos-NG (Next Generation) is a shortened version. It will have a range of 290 km, a speed of Mach 3.5, and weigh around 1.5 tons.
The Su-30 MKI will carry three of these. MiG-29K, HAL Tejas Mk1A (later Mk2), and Dassault Rafale will each carry one. The submarine-launched variant will be capable of being fired from the new P75I class of submarines.
Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon (SAAW)
Developed by the DRDO lab Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in Hyderabad, the SAAW is an indigenous, high-precision, standoff glide bomb weighing 125 kg (80 kg high-explosive/pre-fragmented warhead).
Designed to destroy ground targets such as enemy runways, bunkers, and radar installations, it has a range of up to 100 km.
It can be launched from fighter aircraft such as the Jaguar, Su-30MKI, MiG-29, Mirage 2000, Tejas, and Hawk-I, enabling high-precision strikes with a CEP of around 3m. It uses an Inertial Navigation System (INS) + GPS, with electro-optical (EO) terminal guidance for higher precision.
The SAAW is a key component of India’s long-range precision-guided munitions arsenal, and was reportedly deployed by the IAF during “Operation Sindoor” to destroy Pakistani airfield infrastructure. Its ability to strike from a safe distance (standoff range) minimizes risk to aircraft. The weapon is being produced by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) for the IAF.
Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM)
HELINA (Dhruvastra) is an abbreviation for Helicopter-launched NAG. It is a third-generation fire-and-forget anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) for helicopters like the Rudra, which are equipped with 2 Twin launchers, one on either side, carrying a total of 8 missiles.
HELINA is equipped with a High Resolution Imaging Infrared Seeker (IIR) capable of automatic target detection and tracking in adverse weather conditions. Manufactured by BDL, it has a max range of 7000 m. The attack modes are top-down and direct.
The SANT (Stand-off Anti-Tank) missile is an advanced, 4th-generation, indigenous air-to-surface weapon developed by DRDO’s RCI for the IAF. It is an upgraded, helicopter-launched version of the HELINA weapon system.
It features a millimetre-wave (MMW) seeker, enabling high-precision strikes against armoured targets from a safe standoff distance of up to 10 km. It features both lock-on before launch and lock-on after launch capabilities.
Indian and Global AAMs
India’s primary indigenous AAM is the Astra, a family of Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missiles with variants including the Mk-1 (110 km range), the upcoming longer-range Mk-2 (160 km initially, upgradeable to 240 km later), and the Mk-3 “Gandiva” (350 km).
These are being integrated into most Indian fighters and have already been cleared for the Su-30MKI, MiG-29, and Tejas Mk.1/1A.
For the Astra Mk2, DRDO scientists have also reportedly assessed technology from the Chinese-origin PL-15E missile that was recovered intact by the Indian forces during Op Sindoor, as it lacked self-destruct technology.
Mk3 uses Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR), and utilises a two-way data link for mid-course guidance from the launch aircraft or friendly AEW&C aircraft, and also employs electronic counter-countermeasures.
Top global AAMs are MBDA Meteor (200+ km), AIM-120D AMRAAM (160+ km), French MICA (80 km), Russian R-77-1/R-77M (110-150 km), and Chinese PL-15 (180-200 km). Russian hypersonic R-37M (300 to 400 km) and American AIM-174B (400 km) are the longest-range AAMs.
Surface-to-Air Missiles (SAM)
India utilizes various indigenous and joint-developed SAMs, such as the Akash (medium-range) and Barak-8/MRSAM (jointly developed with Israel), and is developing Project Kusha (long-range).
These complement the Russian S-400, Pechora (S-125), and SAM-8. India is also developing a mobile quick reaction QRSAM (Anant Shastra) for moving forces and upgrading existing fleets, showcasing a mix of short-, medium-, and long-range capabilities.
The Akash SAM, developed by India’s DRDO and produced by BDL/BEL for the IAF and Indian Army, can take on fighter jets, UAVs, and missiles, and has a range of up to 30-45 km, speed up to Mach 2.5-3.5, and uses a 60 kg high-explosive pre-fragmented warhead. Akash-NG (New Generation) range is 30-80 km.
The Barak 8 LR-SAM and MR-SAM is an Indian-Israeli jointly developed SAM designed to defend against airborne threats, including aircraft, helicopters, anti-ship missiles, UAVs, ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles.
It is produced by Israel’s Directorate of Research and Development (DDR&D), Elta Systems, Rafael Advanced Defence Systems, and India’s Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), Kalyani Rafael Advanced Systems (KRAS), and Tata Advanced Systems (TASL). There is an extended-range variant, the Barak-ER. Maximum ranges are 150 km.
Anant Shastra is an indigenous, highly mobile QRSAM system developed by DRDO, with production fast-tracked for the Indian Army to defend against aerial threats (drones, jets, missiles) on the move. Mounted on 8×8 trucks, it features 360-degree radar coverage, a 30 km range, and is intended to protect armoured columns, particularly along northern/western borders.
Project Kusha is a DRDO-led initiative to develop India’s indigenous, long-range air defence system, designed to create a multi-layered shield against stealth aircraft, drones, and cruise/ballistic missiles. Aiming for induction by 2028-2029, this system features three interceptor variants (M1, M2, M3) with ranges up to 350+ km, rivalling the Russian S-400.
The top global SAM systems are led by Russia’s S-500 Prometheus (600 km) and S-400 Triumf (400 km), alongside the US Patriot PAC-3 and THAAD (200 km).
Other elite systems include the Franco-Italian SAMP/T (100 km), Israel’s Iron Dome (70 km) and David’s Sling (300 km), the Indo-Israeli Barak-8, and China’s HQ-9/FD-2000 series (125 km). HQ-9B reportedly has a range of 250 km.
India’s Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD)
India’s BMD program was initiated in 2000, following the Kargil conflict.
The DRDO-developed two-tiered, multi-layered shield is designed to intercept incoming missiles. The Long-Range Tracking Radar (LRTR) “Swordfish” is based on Israeli EL/M-2080 Green Pine radar technology and built under license in India.
This AESA radar can simultaneously track 200 targets at 1,500 km and relay crucial early warning and target-acquisition data to interceptor missiles. The BMD system, utilising Prithvi Air Defence (PAD) for 50-80 km high-altitude (exo-atmospheric) interception and Advanced Air Defence (AAD) for low-altitude (endo-atmospheric) interception, is evolving into a more robust three-layer defence via Phase-II AD-1/AD-2 missiles to counter advanced threats such as the long-range interception of IRBMs and ICBMs.
The network provides data to the IAF’s Integrated Command and Control System (IACCS). India is developing sea-based BMD, deploying AD-1 and AD-2 interceptors on frontline warships to provide a mobile, tri-domain defence.
Mission Sudarshan Chakra
Mission Sudarshan Chakra is an Indian defence initiative to develop an interlocked, multi-layered, all-encompassing, AI-enabled networked architecture that combines enhanced monitoring, cyber protection, and physical defence to protect the Indian population and infrastructure against terrorist attacks, military strikes, and other high-value threats.
The idea behind the defence barrier is similar to that of the Iron Dome in Israel and the Golden Dome in the United States. The DRDO is the main entity spearheading the project.
Rudram Anti-Radiation Missile (ARM)
The Rudram missile series (I, II, III), developed by DRDO for the IAF, is evolving rapidly.
Rudram-I is in production. Rudram-II (300 km range) was flight-tested in May 2024 and expected to gain production clearance by 2026.
The long-range Rudram-III (550-600 km) has also completed successful tests in 2025. DRDO has also involved Adani Defence & Aerospace under the Development cum Production Partner programme for mass production. Launch platforms are MiG-29UPG, Dassault Mirage 2000, Su-30MKI, Tejas Mk.1/1A, and Tejas Mk2 (Planned).
Top global ARMs include the U.S. AGM-88 HARM series, Russia’s Kh-31P (India also operates) and Kh-58, YJ-91 (China), ALARM (UK), and Turkey’s AKBABA. These missiles are vital for Suppression of Enemy Air Defences (SEAD) missions, utilizing passive homing heads to identify, classify, and engage targets.
CATS Hunter (ALCM)
CATS Hunter is a next-generation smart munition/missile system under development. With a German KEPD 350-like appearance, the CATS Hunter will weigh 600 kg and will be powered by a single HAL PTAE-7 turbojet engine.
It is designed as a low-observable, standoff air-launched cruise missile that can be integrated into CATS MAX, Mirage 2000, Jaguar, or Su-30MKI and will consist of an interchangeable weapon carriage section, based on the mission profile, that can carry 250 kg of unitary warhead or cluster munitions with a striking range of 200–300 km.
It will use multiple global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) and terrain contour matching (TERCOM) with mid-flight updates for guidance, and an imaging seeker to support automatic target acquisition during the terminal phase.
Indigenous Radars
India is advancing rapidly in developing indigenous radar systems, focusing on Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) technology. These are aimed at achieving self-reliance and enhancing battlefield surveillance, tracking, and air defence capabilities.
The Arudhra is an indigenous, 4D Active Aperture Phased Array Medium Power Radar (MPR) designed by DRDO’s LRDE and manufactured by BEL for the IAF. It features electronic steering in both azimuth and elevation for 360-degree, long-range detection (up to 400 km) of aerial targets, including small radar cross-section (RCS) objects.
The system enhances air defence surveillance by tracking targets from 100 meters to 30 km in altitude. Contracts for its procurement were signed in March 2023, with deployment aimed at strengthening surveillance, particularly in mountainous regions.
Rohini & Revathi are 3D Central Acquisition Radars (CARs) developed by DRDO and built by BEL, and are deployed by the Army (Rohini) and the Navy (Revathi) for long-range, medium-power surveillance.
The Aslesha Mk I is an indigenous S-band 3D, Low-Level Light Weight Radar (LLLWR) developed by DRDO and BEL for the Indian Armed Forces. Designed for rapid deployment across mountainous, desert, and plain terrain, this radar provides surveillance, detection, and tracking of aerial threats, including UAVs, helicopters, and fighters, at low to medium altitudes. It is primarily used to plug gaps in surveillance along mountainous borders, including the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
Rajendra radar is a multifunction phased array radar that serves as the heart of the Akash missile system, capable of tracking multiple targets and guiding missiles.
The “Indian Doppler Radar” (INDRA) series, including Indra-1 (2D), was designed as a mobile, low-level radar for the Indian Army and Air Force to detect low-flying aircraft.
Uttam is a solid-state gallium arsenide (GaAs)- based AESA radar under development by DRDO’s LRDE, capable of multi-target tracking, high-resolution imaging, and low probability of intercept (LPI).
It is going on board LCA Mk1A and later a larger variant on Su-30MKI. HAL is the lead integrator, and Bharat Electronics is the major supplier of subsystems. Uttam is 95% indigenous, with only one imported subsystem. The radar was also approved for export. It would be a game-changer for the IAF.
Swathi is a highly mobile, phased-array radar designed to detect and track incoming mortar shells, rockets, and to locate enemy launchers.
Swordfish is developed specifically to track ballistic missiles as part of India’s multi-layered Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) shield.
The Netra Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) system is an indigenous Indian radar developed by DRDO for the IAF, mounted on an Embraer EMB-145 jet. It features a dorsal fin-mounted AESA radar providing 240-degree coverage to detect enemy aircraft (250 km), drones, and missiles.
An enhanced Netra Mk2 variant with 300-360 degree coverage and a 500 km detection range will be on board the six modified Airbus A321 aircraft. It will provide advanced situational awareness.
The D4 anti-drone system, developed by DRDO, stands for Drone-Detect, Deter, and Destroy, providing a comprehensive solution to neutralize small drones through integrated radar, electro-optical sensors, and command systems. It uses “soft kill” methods like GPS spoofing and radio frequency jamming, as well as “hard kill” methods such as laser-directed energy weapons and interceptor drones, to counter threats in static or mobile configurations, making it a key part of India’s national security.
LRDE and BEL are developing an indigenous VHF Radar designed for long-range detection and tracking of stealth targets. The Airport Surveillance Radar and Monopulse Secondary Surveillance Radar (ASR-MSSR) was developed by BEL for civil and defence Air Traffic Control (ATC) applications.
In 2025, Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) and the Spanish firm Indra delivered the Lanza-N, a 3D naval air-surveillance radar, to the Indian Navy.
This advanced, long-range radar is being installed on warships for enhanced 3D surveillance. These developments are part of the ‘Make in India’ initiative, ensuring that the Indian Armed Forces are equipped with modern, locally produced surveillance technology.
Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator Vehicle (HSTDV)
The HSTDV is an unmanned scramjet demonstration aircraft developed by DRDO to achieve hypersonic speeds of around Mach 6.5. Successfully tested, it utilizes a solid rocket motor to reach high altitudes and speeds, validating technologies such as scramjet ignition, air-breathing propulsion, and high-temperature materials.
The HSTDV has demonstrated Mach 6 speed and can reach altitudes of 30–32 km, crucial for high-speed cruise. The vehicle uses an indigenous air-breathing scramjet engine, which compresses air before combustion, making it more efficient and cost-effective than conventional rockets.
The technology is intended for developing long-range cruise missiles (like Brahmos II) and low-cost, reusable satellite launch vehicles. With its successful test, India became the fourth country (after the USA, Russia, and China) to demonstrate this technology, enhancing capabilities against missile defence systems.
The vehicle utilizes advanced materials and thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) to withstand temperatures exceeding 2500 degrees Celsius. The HSTDV program marks a significant leap in India’s defence, surveillance, and space launch capabilities.
Emerging & Strategic Technologies
India has taken a major leap in advanced missile technology as the DRDO successfully tests Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR) technology, a capability mastered by only a handful of countries worldwide.
The demonstration was carried out at the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, on February 3, 2026. Laser-Directed Energy Weapons (DEW) are evolving, and India successfully tested high-energy laser systems in 2025, becoming a top-four global nation in this field. DRDO lab ARDE is developing an electromagnetic rail gun to achieve hypersonic projectile speeds.
To Summarise
DRDO follows the principle “Balasya Mulam Vigyanam” that is “the source of strength is science“, on the premise of India that scientific development is fundamental to national security.
India has a great and growing package of indigenous missiles. India is using leading-edge technologies and employs a blend of indigenous missiles (Astra, Rudram) and imported systems (such as Russian & Israeli missiles) for comprehensive air defence and offensive capabilities.
India continues to develop advanced AAMs, focusing on longer ranges (BVRAAMs), faster engagement, and specialized roles such as anti-radiation, ensuring its air combat capabilities remain potent.
The range and accuracy are catching up with the best in the world. Indian missiles can operate in a dense EW environment, and their no-escape zones are increasing.
It is a matter of time before India reduces its dependence on foreign weapons. Israel and Russia have been particularly supportive and have shared technologies through a joint venture route (BrahMos, MRSAM).
India is gradually shifting from being a major arms importer to an inspiring defence manufacturer and exporter. India is rapidly expanding its defence footprint, driven by the export of indigenously developed, high-tech systems such as the supersonic BrahMos cruise missile. Other nations interested in BrahMos include Malaysia, the UAE, Chile, and South Africa.
The Akash missile system is actively being exported, with Armenia as the first confirmed buyer in a major 2022 deal and significant interest from countries such as the Philippines, Brazil, Egypt, and Vietnam. Total defence exports reached ₹23,622 crore ($2.5 Billion) in FY 2024-25.
Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) is most important in defence technologies. Indigenization prevents supply chain vulnerabilities.
While India has some distance to cover in aircraft, stealth, and aero-engine, it has done very well in radars and missiles. It is hoped that radars and missiles will soon be added to the Positive Indigenisation List (PIL).
- Air Marshal Anil Chopra (Retired) is an Indian Air Force veteran, fighter test pilot, and ex-director-general of the Center for Air Power Studies. He has been decorated with gallantry and distinguished service medals during his 40-year tenure in the IAF.
- THIS IS AN OPINION ARTICLE. VIEWS PERSONAL OF THE AUTHOR
- He tweets @Chopsyturvey
- Follow EurAsian Times on Google News
