Subsonic Cruise Missile Launched by India?
VerifiedAnswer: Nirbhay
Explanation:
The Nirbhay cruise missile is India's indigenous subsonic cruise missile developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). This missile represents a significant milestone in India's defense capabilities and showcases the country's growing expertise in advanced missile technology.
Nirbhay, which literally means "fearless" in Sanskrit, is designed to fly at subsonic speeds, typically below the speed of sound (approximately 340 meters per second). Unlike supersonic missiles that travel faster than sound, subsonic cruise missiles like Nirbhay offer certain strategic advantages including better fuel efficiency, longer range capabilities, and enhanced stealth characteristics.
Key features of the Nirbhay missile include:
• Range: Approximately 1,000 kilometers, making it capable of striking targets at considerable distances • Weight: Around 1,500 kilograms with a payload capacity of about 300 kilograms • Guidance System: Advanced navigation system with GPS and inertial navigation capabilities • Launch Platform: Can be launched from multiple platforms including land, sea, and air • Flight Profile: Capable of flying at extremely low altitudes to avoid radar detection
The development of Nirbhay began in the early 2000s as part of India's Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme. The missile underwent several test flights, with the first test conducted in 2013. Through various iterations and improvements, DRDO successfully addressed technical challenges and enhanced the missile's performance parameters.
What makes Nirbhay particularly significant is its terrain-following capability, which allows it to navigate complex geographical features while maintaining a low flight profile. This characteristic makes it extremely difficult for enemy radar systems to detect and intercept the missile during its flight path.
The successful development and testing of Nirbhay demonstrates India's growing self-reliance in defense technology and reduces dependence on foreign military equipment. This achievement aligns with India's "Make in India" initiative and strengthens the country's strategic defense capabilities in the region.
