New Delhi

Amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia, the Indian Army is planning to procure an advanced variant of the BrahMos missile with a strike range of over 800 kilometres, significantly enhancing its long-range precision strike capability.

Defence officials said the Army, which currently operates BrahMos cruise missiles with a strike range of over 450 km, is now looking to upgrade to the extended-range version. The proposal is expected to be taken up at a high-level meeting of the Ministry of Defence in the coming days.

The move comes in the backdrop of changing global security dynamics and lessons drawn from recent conflicts, particularly in West Asia involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. These developments have underscored the growing importance of long-range precision weapons in modern warfare.

Officials also pointed to the effectiveness of BrahMos missiles during Operation Sindoor last year, when Indian forces reportedly used them to target key installations, including Pakistan Air Force bases. The performance of the missile system has reinforced confidence in its operational capabilities.

The Army is simultaneously pushing for a broader transformation to adapt to next-generation warfare. This includes large-scale induction of drones and missiles, as well as structural changes within its combat units. Specialized drone regiments and platoons are being developed within artillery and infantry formations to enhance surveillance and strike efficiency.

In addition, the armed forces are exploring the creation of a dedicated missile force and expanding their existing inventory to maintain a technological edge.

The BrahMos missile, developed through a joint venture between India and Russia, has undergone significant indigenisation in recent years. It is currently deployed across all three services—Army, Navy, and Air Force—in multiple roles, including land attack, anti-ship, and air-launched missions.

India is also working on next-generation variants of the BrahMos that are lighter and more versatile, enabling integration with indigenous platforms such as the Light Combat Aircraft HAL Tejas.

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The proposed acquisition of the extended-range BrahMos missiles reflects India’s continued focus on strengthening its defence preparedness and adapting to rapidly evolving global security challenges.