India Unveils Advanced Missile System with 500 km Range, Built Domestically

Quick Summary

• Project 18 is an initiative by the Indian Navy to create next-generation stealth guided-missile destroyers with advanced capabilities.
• The destroyers will feature a layered defense system with 144 vertical launch system (VLS) cells, carrying missiles for air defense, anti-ship strikes, land attacks, and close-in protection.
• The advanced radar and sensor systems include four AESA radars enabling 360-degree surveillance with a detection range exceeding 500 km.
• The vessel will displace approximately 13,000 tonnes, making it one of the largest warships in India’s fleet.
• It’s missile systems include PGLRSAM (250 km range),BrahMos cruise missiles,and surface-to-air defense mechanisms for multi-layered protection.
• Indigenous design under Atmanirbhar Bharat involves about 75% local content. Additional features include underwater drones, anti-submarine warfare systems, and space for multi-role helicopters.
• expected timeline: Five years for contracting and up to ten years for delivery. India aims to expand its naval warship count to 170-175 vessels by 2035.

!India’s newest weapon)

Indian opinion Analysis

Project 18 represents a strategic leap in india’s maritime capabilities amidst evolving geopolitical challenges across its borders with China and Pakistan. With layered defense innovations like the integration of AESA radar systems for enhanced situational awareness over vast distances (500 km), these destroyers embody futuristic offshore operational efficacy.

the emphasis on indigenous manufacturing aligns not only with Atmanirbhar Bharat but also enhances national security through self-reliance in critical technologies. Though, the extended timeline of up to ten years may require vigilant oversight given regional fast-paced advancements in naval technologies by other powers like China.

If implemented successfully within proposed timelines and capacities-such as enabling autonomous underwater missions-the new fleet can significantly bolster India’s deterrence posture while supporting long-term maritime interests central to maintaining dominance in the Indian Ocean Region.

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