In a landmark moment for India's space ambitions, Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has blasted off to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 mission , marking the country's return to human spaceflight after a 41-year hiatus . This historic launch from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida has not only reignited national pride but also officially kickstarted India’s human spaceflight programme . The mission, operated by Axiom Space , includes a four-member international crew that will spend 14 days in orbit , conducting scientific research, outreach programs, and various commercial activities. This momentous occasion places India among a select group of nations capable of sending humans into space and reflects the growing prowess of the Indian space sector . A New Chapter: Shubhanshu Shukla and India’s Astronautical Comeback The last Indian to go to space was Rakesh Sharma in 1984, aboard the Soviet spacecraft Soyuz T-11. Now, in 2025, Shubhanshu...
BrahMos NG (Next Generation) – The Future of Supersonic Cruise Missiles
Introduction
BrahMos NG (Next Generation) is an advanced supersonic cruise missile developed as part of the India-Russia joint venture, aimed at enhancing precision strike capabilities. This next-gen missile is a lighter, smaller, and more versatile variant of the existing BrahMos missile, with an improved design that allows deployment across multiple platforms.
Key Features of BrahMos NG
First Flight Test and Production Timeline
The maiden test flight is scheduled for 2026.
Production is expected to commence by 2027-28.
Design and Development
BrahMos NG is being developed as a compact and advanced version of the original BrahMos missile.
It is smaller and lighter, making it suitable for a broader range of platforms.
The missile will feature an upgraded propulsion system for higher efficiency.
Type and Deployment
Supersonic cruise missile with advanced targeting capabilities.
Designed for deployment on airborne, naval, and submarine platforms.
Compatible with SU-30MKI, LCA Tejas, submarines, and warships.
Performance and Specifications
Speed: Capable of achieving speeds up to Mach 3.5 (three times the speed of sound).
Range: Initially 290 km, with future versions expected to extend up to 450 km.
Weight: Estimated to be around 1.5 tons, compared to 2.5 tons of the original BrahMos.
Enhanced Capabilities
Designed for precision strikes with stealth features.
Reduced size allows more flexibility for airborne deployment.
Improved maneuverability and accuracy with modern guidance systems.
Export Potential and Global Interest
BrahMos NG has high export potential due to its superior capabilities.
India delivered the first batch of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to the Philippines in 2024.
Other countries have shown interest in acquiring the missile, enhancing India’s defense export profile.
Strategic Importance
Strengthens India's deterrence capabilities against regional threats.
Enhances combat effectiveness of India's Air Force, Navy, and strategic forces.
Boosts India's indigenous defense manufacturing under Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Potential to become a key asset in India's defense diplomacy.
Conclusion
BrahMos NG represents the future of supersonic cruise missile technology, combining speed, agility, and precision. With its upcoming maiden flight test in 2026 and production beginning in 2027-28, it is set to become a game-changer in modern warfare. Its versatility, export potential, and advanced features make it one of the most significant defense developments in recent years.