A state-of-the-art facility in Lucknow will now manufacture the BrahMos missile, considered among the world's fastest supersonic missiles. The BrahMos missile's range has been increased from 290 to 400 kilometers, and its speed is Mach 2.8, approximately three times the speed of sound.
Lucknow: Production of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile commenced today in Lucknow, bolstering India's strategic capabilities. This ambitious project was launched virtually in the presence of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Located in Lucknow's Defence Industrial Corridor node, this unit is considered a landmark achievement towards self-reliance in India's defence production sector.
Missile Launchable from Three Mediums
The BrahMos missile is one of the world's fastest supersonic cruise missiles, boasting a speed of Mach 2.8 (approximately three times the speed of sound) and a strike range of 400 kilometers, up from 290 kilometers. It utilizes 'fire and forget' technology, guiding itself to its target after launch. This missile can be launched from land, sea, and air.
The project's foundation stone was laid on December 26, 2021, and completed in just three and a half years. The Uttar Pradesh government provided 80 hectares of land free of cost for this unit, built at a cost of ₹300 crore (3 billion rupees). This factory will not only strengthen Uttar Pradesh's role in national security but also open new avenues for employment and technology transfer for the youth.
A Step Towards Self-Reliant India
This BrahMos unit is the largest and most significant initiative to date among the six nodes—Lucknow, Jhansi, Agra, Aligarh, Chitrakoot, and Kanpur—of the Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor, announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2018. It will not only boost defence production but also significantly contribute to making India self-reliant in the defence sector.
Along with the launch of the BrahMos missile unit, the Defence Testing Infrastructure System (DTIS) was also inaugurated. This system will provide modern facilities for testing and certification of defence products, ensuring improved quality and production in line with global standards.
Lucknow Towards a New Industrial Revolution
Short films on BrahMos aerospace and aero alloy technology were also showcased. These films highlighted the project's technical complexities, manufacturing processes, and strategic importance, inspiring youth and startups to innovate in this field. The commencement of BrahMos production in Lucknow significantly strengthens India's military preparedness.
This initiative is particularly significant given India's ongoing border tensions with Pakistan and China. The BrahMos missile's accuracy and high-speed strike capability could prove decisive in India's first-strike or defensive strategies.
