After years of anticipation an Indian supersonic Bramos missile was successfully carried by a Russian Sukhoi-30 MKI during a 45 minute test flight. The Russian jet took off from HAL’s Nasik airport carrying one of India’s prized Bramos missiles and was able to take off and return while carrying the missile without issue. This marks the first time a massive missile like the Bramos was pair with a weapons platform like a fighter aircraft.
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The Bramos is the fastest anti-ship cruise missile in operation. It has proved itself capable of supersonic flight, has deadly accuracy, can be launched from land, sea and even underwater and is known as the most versatile missile in the Indian armory. Prior to this test the only criticism of the missile was that it could not be fired from air.
Brahmos Aerospace has addressed that criticism by modifying the Russian Su-30 MKI to carry a single Brahmos on it’s centerline hardpoint. See video of the SU-30 MKI carrying a Brahmos below:
Brahmos Aerospace also had to make alterations to the missile itself to make the previously unheard of pairing function properly. Stabilizing fins and the rockets booster were reduced in size so they could fit securely on the aircraft’s underbelly. The missile has also been reduced in size from 3 tonnes to only 2.5 tonnes so it would cause less strain on the aircraft during takeoff.
Pairing the Brahmos with the SU-30 MKI will allow the Indian Air Force to strike specific targets in enemy territory from “stand-off” ranges. This will allow Indian pilots to carry out missions while putting themselves and their aircraft at minimal risk.
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