India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is set to showcase its growing self-reliance in defense technology at the 77th Republic Day Parade on January 26th with the debut of its long-range Anti-Ship Hypersonic Glide Missile. This advanced weapon system, designed for the Indian Navy, boasts a range of 1,500 km and the capability to neutralize warships.

The missile's primary advantage lies in its hypersonic speed, rendering it virtually undetectable by enemy radar systems. According to Project Director A. Prasad Goud, the missile travels at hypersonic speeds with exceptional aerodynamic efficiency, allowing it to glide over significant distances. Goud also noted that the missile could reach its target in approximately 15 minutes and destroy all classes of warships.

The unveiling of the hypersonic glide missile underscores India's rapid progress in hypersonic missile technology. DRDO is simultaneously working on hypersonic glide and hypersonic cruise missile technologies. According to Goud, India possesses the technology to enhance missile capabilities to a range of 3,000 to 3,500 kilometers. The Advanced Systems Laboratory is involved in the hypersonic glide vehicle technology.

The missile is designed to carry various payloads and defeat warheads on ships. Its ability to fly low in the atmosphere further reduces the chances of detection by enemy radar until the terminal phase. The missile's integration into the Indian Navy's arsenal will significantly bolster India's maritime capabilities in the Indian Ocean region.

In addition to the hypersonic glide missile, the Republic Day parade will feature other defense assets, including the Dhanush Gun System, Akash (L) Launcher, Suryastra Universal Rocket Launcher System, and Akash missiles. European Union leaders are expected to attend the parade as chief guests.