On 22 June 2026 India showcased indigenous missile hardware at Eurosatory and reported recent DRDO flight tests validating BMD interceptors, an Agni missile with MIRV capability, cruise‑missile trials and hypersonic propulsion experiments; the MoD broadened private‑sector roles under DAP 2026.
Recent flight tests and capabilities
- DRDO consecutive tests (10–11 June 2026): Tests from the Integrated Test Range off Odisha demonstrated a multi‑layer Ballistic Missile Defence system capable of intercepting threats in the ~5,000 km class.
- Agni MIRV validation: Flight validation reported for an Agni variant carrying Multiple Independently targetable Reentry Vehicles (MIRV).
- LRLACM flight‑test (15 June 2026): Indigenous Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile validated critical cruise‑missile technologies.
- Hypersonic experiments: Trials included hypersonic propulsion research and related demonstrations.
Missile variants and export considerations
- BrahMos developments: Work on stealthier, lighter, longer‑range and potential hypersonic variants, including compact BrahMos‑NG; an 800 km range version under development with Russian collaboration.
- Export controls: BrahMos exports to third countries require Russian consent; missile transfers are sensitive to Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) norms.
Policy, industry and manufacturing
- DAP 2026: Expanded private‑sector participation in tactical missile development and manufacture; participating firms include Adani Defence & Aerospace, Bharat Forge, ICOMM Tele and Solar Industries.
- Defence exports FY2025–26: Record ₹38,424 crore; public sector ₹21,071 crore, private sector ₹17,353 crore.
- Manufacturing clusters: Seven specialised defence manufacturing clusters to be set up across states with IIT and industry support.
IASPOINT Booster Facts
- DRDO: Primary military R&D agency; major test facility at Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Island (Integrated Test Range), Odisha.
- MIRV: Allows multiple warheads with independent targeting from a single missile boost stage.
- BMD layers: Typically combines exo‑atmospheric and endo‑atmospheric interceptors for layered defence.