The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) marked a significant milestone with the successful maiden flight test of the Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM) at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha on November 12, 2024. This achievement is not merely another success in missile testing; it represents a critical advancement in India’s defense capabilities, significantly enhancing the nation’s conventional deterrence posture.

In a press release from the Ministry of Defence, it was confirmed that all missile subsystems operated as anticipated, fulfilling the primary mission objectives throughout the test. The LRLACM adeptly followed its intended flight path utilizing waypoint navigation, showcasing its ability to execute various maneuvers at different altitudes and speeds.

The development of the LRLACM was initiated to address specific qualitative requirements (QRs) presented to the DRDO by the Indian Navy (IN). The missile’s conceptualization was first announced during the DefExpo 2020, and by July 2020, the Defence Acquisition Council had approved its acquisition by both the Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force. The LRLACM is essentially an evolution of the Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile (ITCM), which originated from the DRDO’s Nirbhay project, allowing for accelerated development testing.

A total of approximately 20 developmental flights are planned for the LRLACM, primarily relying on indigenous components and systems, though certain small sensors and Ring Laser Gyros (RLGs) may be sourced externally. Following the successful completion of these trials, it is anticipated that the Indian Navy will place an order worth Rs 5,000 crore for 200 LRLACMs with Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) in Hyderabad and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) in Bengaluru—both designated as Development-Cum-Production Partners (DCPPs) for the missile.

The LRLACM boasts an impressive operational range exceeding 1,000 kilometers. Its design allows it to follow a terrain-hugging flight profile, effectively evading radar detection, and adjusting its trajectory to circumvent enemy air defenses, obstacles, and uneven terrain. The missile is equipped with an RF seeker for terminal homing, which is similar to systems developed for the BrahMos missile, enabling precise strikes on stationary targets.

The LRLACM can be launched from mobile ground-based platforms as well as from frontline naval vessels using a Universal Vertical Launcher Module (UVLM), a technology developed and patented by BrahMos Aerospace. This launcher is already installed on 30 ships within the Indian Navy, enhancing the missile’s versatility and deployment options.

In addition to the LRLACM, the DRDO is also developing a submarine-launched variant of the ITCM, known as the Submarine-Launched Cruise Missile (SLCM), which was sanctioned in 2017. Like the LRLACM, the SLCM has a range of 1,000km. Prior tests of submarine-launched missiles, including the BrahMos variant, have demonstrated the feasibility of launching these munitions from submerged platforms.

Recent reports have indicated plans for the SLCM to be first tested on Russian-origin Sindhughosh-class (Kilo-class) submarines. There are discussions about developing a variant of the Kilo-class with a Vertical Launch System (VLS) that could potentially accommodate both the BrahMos and the SLCM, thereby significantly increasing the operational flexibility of India’s underwater capabilities.

Overall, the DRDO’s success with the LRLACM is a notable step towards bolstering India’s defense strategy, empowering the Indian Armed Forces with a range of sophisticated missile technologies that were once considered aspirational. The successful navigation of the challenges associated with missile development signals a robust technological advancement and enhanced strategic deterrence capabilities for the nation.

The Surya Half Marathon unfolded in Jabalpur on Sunday, drawing an impressive crowd organized by the headquarters of the Madhya Bharat area of the Indian Army. This lively event was graced by Lieutenant General Anindya Sengupta, the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Central Command, who served as the chief guest.

With over 10,000 participants hailing from diverse age groups and backgrounds, the marathon was a true celebration of health and fitness. Among the enthusiastic participants were military personnel, fitness lovers, NCC cadets, women, schoolchildren, citizens of Jabalpur, and specially-abled children, all coming together in a voluntary bid to promote a culture of fitness and wellness.

The marathon featured runs in multiple categories, including distances of 21 km, 10 km, 5 km, and 3 km. Each category commenced from the Cobra Ground at staggered intervals, following a flag-off ceremony conducted by Lieutenant General Sengupta and Mrs. Sengupta, the regional president of the Army Wives Welfare Association (AWWA). Participants traversed the scenic green landscapes of Jabalpur, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with energy and determination.

At the conclusion of the event, podium finishers in each category received accolades for their impressive performances, while all participants were commemorated with finisher medals and certificates that celebrated their competitive spirit and perseverance.

Adding to the day’s excitement, the Indian Army’s Dare Devils bike stunt team captivated attendees with their thrilling displays of precision, bravery, and synchronization. Additionally, the Army’s microlight team entertained spectators and participants alike with an inspiring aerial display. As a unique touch, they greeted the marathon finishers by gracefully airdropping flower petals during the prize distribution ceremony.

The Surya Half Marathon not only showcased athleticism and camaraderie but also highlighted the Indian Army’s commitment to fostering health and wellness within the community, making it a memorable event for all involved.

The Gajraj Corps of the Indian Army marked Nuranang Day in Tawang district, Arunachal Pradesh, on Sunday, honoring the sacrifices of the 4 Garhwal Rifles during the pivotal Battle of Nuranang on November 17, 1962. This day serves as a tribute to the bravery exhibited by Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, awarded the Maha Vir Chakra, and his fellow soldiers during the Sino-Indian War, as conveyed by a defence spokesperson.

The commemoration began with a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the Jaswant Garh War Memorial, drawing a significant crowd that included family members of Rifleman Rawat, civil officials, veteran soldiers, students, tourists, and over 300 other participants. Notable among the attendees was Hakraso Kri, the Additional Deputy Commissioner of Jang, underscoring the community’s respect for the martyrs who laid down their lives for India’s sovereignty.

As part of the observance, a new memorial was unveiled, as stated by Defence Spokesperson Lt Col Mahendra Rawat. An engaging reenactment of the Battle of Nuranang significantly enlivened the event, vividly portraying the steadfast spirit and valor of Indian soldiers. This historical dramatization served as a powerful reminder of the heroism exhibited by those who fought during the confrontation.

The celebrations epitomized a unified commitment from the people of Arunachal Pradesh, the Indian Army, and state officials to preserve the legacy of India’s war heroes. The shared determination to honor these sacrifices created an atmosphere of profound respect throughout the event.

The day culminated in a ceremony particularly honoring the family of Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat and celebrating the contributions of ex-servicemen. This heartfelt acknowledgment underscored the nation’s gratitude towards those who served and the sacrifices that were made. Nuranang Day ultimately served as a moving reminder of the courage and dedication demonstrated by India’s defenders during one of the nation’s challenging historical times.

The Gajraj Corps of the Indian Army held a significant observance of Nuranang Day in Tawang district, Arunachal Pradesh, focusing on commemorating the sacrifices made by the 4 Garhwal Rifles during the pivotal Battle of Nuranang on November 17, 1962. This day serves as a poignant tribute to the valor displayed by Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, a recipient of the Maha Vir Chakra, and his fellow soldiers, who exhibited remarkable bravery during the Sino-Indian War.

Observances began with a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the Jaswant Garh War Memorial. The event saw participation from a variety of attendees, including the family of Rifleman Rawat, local civil officials, ex-servicemen, students, and numerous tourists, with over 300 individuals participating in total. Among the notable attendees was Jang’s additional deputy commissioner, Hakraso Kri, reflecting the involvement of local governance in paying tribute to these national heroes.

In a gesture to further honor the sacrifices made, a newly established memorial was inaugurated during the event, as confirmed by Defence Spokesperson Lt Col Mahendra Rawat. The celebrations not only served as a remembrance but also presented a dramatized portrayal of the Battle of Nuranang, bringing history to life and highlighting the indomitable spirit of Indian soldiers during the conflict.

The observance of Nuranang Day underscored a collective commitment among the residents of Arunachal Pradesh, the Indian Army, and the state administration to honor the legacy and sacrifices of India’s war heroes. The event concluded on a heartfelt note, with the family of Rifleman Rawat and ex-servicemen being felicitated, symbolizing the nation’s gratitude and acknowledgment of their enduring sacrifices for the country’s sovereignty.

On November 16, India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) achieved a significant milestone with the successful flight trial of the country’s first long-range hypersonic missile. According to a press release from the Ministry of Defence (MoD), this advanced missile is designed to carry a variety of payloads over distances exceeding 1,500 kilometers. The testing demonstrated successful terminal maneuvers, with the missile impacting its target with a high degree of accuracy, marking a notable advancement in India’s missile capabilities.

This achievement follows an earlier test on November 12, where DRDO successfully conducted the inaugural flight test of the Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM) from a mobile articulated launcher. The MoD’s press release indicated that all the missile’s subsystems functioned as anticipated, fulfilling the primary mission objectives and further enhancing confidence in India’s growing missile technology.

Recent reports highlight that both the hypersonic missile, known as Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRAShM), and the LRLACM are poised to complement the supersonic BrahMos missile, which currently serves as the Indian Navy’s primary strike weapon. The capability of these new systems is expected to significantly extend the operational reach of the armed forces, with the LRLACM enabling ground and naval platforms to launch attacks from mobile and stationary launchers.

The hypersonic LRAShM is notable for being the first of its kind in India’s arsenal. Open-source information suggests that this missile features a delta winged body hypersonic glide vehicle (HGV) which enhances its maneuverability compared to traditional kill vehicles. The missile is estimated to have a diameter of approximately 1.4 meters, a length of around 14 meters, and a weight of less than 20 tons. Furthermore, it is expected to be launchable from both naval vessels and shore-based installations, thereby providing versatile deployment options across the defense services.

Interestingly, the MoD’s description implies that the hypersonic missile is intended not only for naval operations but also for multi-service applications within the Indian armed forces. Reports indicate that the military is considering developing conventionally armed ballistic missiles with ranges around 1,500 kilometers, which could potentially include an anti-ship variant, thus enhancing India’s maritime defense capabilities.

Meanwhile, the LRLACM, which has garnered official approval and funding from the Defence Acquisition Council, is primarily being developed by the Aeronautical Development Establishment of DRDO. With Bharat Dynamics Limited and Bharat Electronics Limited as Development-Cum-Production-Partners, the LRLACM is configured to launch from land-based mobile platforms as well as from frontline ships utilizing a newly designed universal vertical launch module (UVLM) system. This represents a modernization effort within the Indian Navy, as newer UVLM systems are replacing older Russian launch cells.

Powered by an advanced Small Turbo Fan Engine (STFE) known as Manik, developed by DRDO, the LRLACM is expected to achieve an operational range exceeding 1,000 kilometers. The Indian Air Force and Army have already received Approval of Necessity (AoN) for the procurement of the missile, with substantial budgets allocated for future orders.

Both the LRAShM and LRLACM significantly enhance the Indian Navy’s conventional strike capabilities, allowing for long-range operations that surpass the current BrahMos missile reach, which is also undergoing range expansion efforts. As part of a broader strategy to bolster national security, these missile systems reflect India’s commitment to advancing its defense technology and maintaining a robust military posture in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.