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BrahMos Missile: Speed, Range, Cost, and Development

BrahMos supersonic cruise missile mounted on a mobile launcher during display
A BrahMos missile being test-fired, showcasing its speed and precision strike capability.


When we talk about modern defense technology, the BrahMos missile stands out as one of the most advanced and powerful supersonic cruise missiles in the world. Known for its speed, precision, and versatility, the BrahMos has become a game-changer in India’s military arsenal.

Who Made the BrahMos Missile?

The BrahMos missile is a joint venture between India and Russia. It was developed by BrahMos Aerospace, a collaboration between India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyenia. The name BrahMos is derived from two rivers – the Brahmaputra in India and the Moskva in Russia – symbolizing the strong partnership between the two nations.


BrahMos Missile Speed

One of the most remarkable features of the BrahMos missile is its speed. It travels at Mach 2.8 to Mach 3, which is nearly three times the speed of sound. This makes it one of the fastest cruise missiles in the world, reducing the reaction time of enemy defenses and ensuring high success in precision strikes.


BrahMos Missile Range

Initially, the BrahMos range was limited to 290 km due to international agreements. However, with India’s entry into the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), the range has been extended. The latest versions of the BrahMos missile range can reach 450–600 km, and future upgrades may extend it to 800 km or more.


BrahMos Missile Cost

The BrahMos missile cost depends on the version and configuration. On average, each missile is estimated to cost around $2.7 million to $3 million (₹25–30 crore INR). Despite the cost, it is considered a valuable investment because of its unmatched speed, accuracy, and versatility across land, sea, and air platforms.


Variants of BrahMos Missile

The BrahMos is not limited to just one platform. It has multiple variants:

  • BrahMos Land-attack Missile – Designed for ground-based precision strikes.

  • BrahMos Naval Variant – Can be launched from warships and submarines.

  • BrahMos Air-launched Missile – Integrated with the Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jets.

  • BrahMos Block III – Capable of high-altitude trajectory and steep-dive attack for mountain warfare.


Why is the BrahMos Missile Special?

  • Unmatched speed (Mach 3) makes interception nearly impossible.

  • Multi-platform deployment (land, air, sea, submarine).

  • Pinpoint accuracy with advanced guidance systems.

  • Export potential, with countries like the Philippines already purchasing it.


Conclusion

The BrahMos missile is more than just a weapon – it is a symbol of India’s defense capabilities and strategic partnership with Russia. With its incredible speed, range, and accuracy, the BrahMos continues to strengthen India’s position in global defense technology.



Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on BrahMos Missile

1. Are BrahMos made in India?

Yes. The BrahMos missile is produced in India by BrahMos Aerospace, a joint venture of DRDO (India) and NPO Mashinostroyenia (Russia). Most components and final assembly are done in India.


2. Are BrahMos missile?

Yes. The BrahMos is a supersonic cruise missile, not a ballistic missile. It flies at low altitudes, making it difficult to detect and intercept.


3. Who made BrahMos?

The BrahMos missile was co-developed by India’s DRDO and Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyenia. It is managed under BrahMos Aerospace. The name comes from two rivers – Brahmaputra (India) and Moskva (Russia).


4. How many BrahMos missiles are there in India?

Exact numbers are classified, but experts estimate that India has over 1,000 BrahMos missiles across its Army, Navy, and Air Force.


5. How many BrahMos missiles are in one battery?

A BrahMos battery typically has 4–6 mobile launchers, each carrying 3 missiles. That means 12–18 BrahMos missiles per battery.


6. Which companies are involved in BrahMos missile?

Several Indian and Russian companies are involved:

  • BrahMos Aerospace (Lead Developer)

  • DRDO (India)

  • NPO Mashinostroyenia (Russia)

  • Indian industries like Godrej Aerospace, Larsen & Toubro, BHEL, HAL supply critical parts.


7. Which countries are buying BrahMos missile?

The Philippines signed a $375 million deal in 2022 to buy BrahMos. Nations like Vietnam, Indonesia, and UAE have shown interest, making BrahMos India’s key export weapon.


8. What are the features of BrahMos missile?

Key features include:

  • Speed: Mach 2.8–3 (nearly 3 times the speed of sound).

  • Range: 290 km (original) → upgraded to 450–600 km, with future versions reaching 800 km+.

  • Accuracy: Precision strike with less than 1 meter error.

  • Multi-platform launch: Land, air, sea, submarine.

  • Warhead: 200–300 kg conventional warhead capacity.

  • Stealth: Low-altitude trajectory for radar evasion.


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