Important for:

UPSC, Haryana HCS, Punjab PCS
Prelims: Hypersonic missiles, DRDO, defence technology
Mains: GS Paper 3 — Defence Technology, National Security, Science & Technology

Why in News?

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully tested the combustor component of an indigenous hypersonic cruise missile engine.

The test marks a major milestone in India’s advanced missile development programme.

What Is a Hypersonic Missile?

Hypersonic missiles are:

→ Missiles that travel at speeds above Mach 5
→ Extremely fast and highly manoeuvrable

They are difficult to detect and intercept using traditional air defence systems.

What Was Tested?

DRDO tested:

Combustor System

A combustor is the part of the engine where:

→ Fuel burns at extremely high speeds
→ Generates thrust for hypersonic flight

This is a critical technology for scramjet-powered missiles.

What Is a Scramjet Engine?

Scramjet stands for:

→ Supersonic Combustion Ramjet

Key Features

• Works at hypersonic speeds
• Uses atmospheric oxygen
• Enables sustained high-speed flight

Why Is This Important for India?

1. Strengthens Defence Capability

Enhances India’s missile technology and deterrence power.

2. Strategic Advantage

Hypersonic missiles are extremely difficult to intercept.

3. Indigenous Technology Boost

Supports:
→ Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence sector

4. Modern Warfare Readiness

Future warfare increasingly depends on advanced missile systems.

Global Context

Only a few countries possess advanced hypersonic missile technology, including:

• USA
• Russia
• China

India’s progress places it among leading defence technology nations.

India-Specific Significance

India is rapidly modernising its defence systems through:

✔ Indigenous missile programmes
✔ DRDO innovation
✔ Advanced aerospace research
✔ Strategic deterrence capability

Key Insight for UPSC

→ Hypersonic technology represents the next generation of strategic warfare systems.

It is highly important for:

✔ Defence preparedness
✔ National security
✔ Technological self-reliance

UPSC Preparation Angle

This topic is highly relevant for students preparing through:

UPSC Coaching Chandigarh

IAS Coaching Chandigarh

Especially important for:

✅ GS3 Defence Technology
✅ Science & Technology
✅ Internal Security
✅ Interview & Essay topics

PRELIMS PRACTICE QUESTIONS

Q1. Hypersonic speed refers to:

A. Below Mach 1
B. Mach 2
C. Above Mach 5
D. Below Mach 3

✅ Answer: C

Q2. DRDO stands for:

A. Defence Research and Development Organisation
B. Defence Radar Development Office
C. Directorate of Research Defence Operations
D. Department of Rocket Development Organisation

✅ Answer: A

Q3. Scramjet engines are associated with:

A. Submarines
B. Hypersonic missiles
C. Satellites
D. Tanks

✅ Answer: B

Q4. Hypersonic missiles are difficult to intercept because they are:

A. Invisible
B. Underwater
C. Extremely fast and manoeuvrable
D. Nuclear only

✅ Answer: C

Q5. Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence mainly focuses on:

A. Import dependence
B. Indigenous defence production
C. Foreign military control
D. Civil aviation only

✅ Answer: B

CBL Mains Practice Question

“Hypersonic missile technology is transforming modern strategic warfare.”
Discuss its significance for India’s defence preparedness.

FAQs

1. What is a hypersonic missile?

A missile capable of travelling above Mach 5 speed.

2. What is DRDO?

India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation responsible for defence innovation.

3. What is a scramjet engine?

A high-speed air-breathing engine used in hypersonic vehicles.

4. Why are hypersonic missiles important?

They are fast, difficult to intercept, and improve strategic deterrence.

5. Which GS paper covers this topic?

GS Paper 3.