India to Double Range of New Cruise Missile LR-LACM to 2,000 km

New Delhi : India’s long-range strike capability is set for a major boost, with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) working to extend the range of its new Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LR-LACM) from 1,000 km to 2,000 km.

The missile, developed by DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), completed its first flight test on November 12, 2024. Launched from a mobile truck-based launcher at Chandipur, Odisha, it demonstrated accuracy and operational flexibility.

Officials said the upgrade will be carried out in phases. The first step will extend the missile’s range to 1,500 km, before reaching the final goal of 2,000 km.

The LR-LACM is a subsonic cruise missile designed to fly at low altitudes, evading enemy radar before striking targets with precision. It is powered by the indigenous “Manik” Small Turbo Fan Engine (STFE) and guided by an advanced Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) seeker, making it resistant to electronic jamming.

The system is intended as a successor to the Nirbhay missile project, incorporating lessons from earlier trials to ensure greater reliability. It can be deployed from land-based mobile launchers as well as naval platforms, enhancing flexibility across services.

Defence analysts say that once operational, the 2,000 km variant will allow India to hit high-value targets deep inside enemy territory, strengthening both conventional strike options and strategic deterrence.

The project, with its emphasis on indigenous design and technology, is also a major step towards the government’s “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiative in defence.