The current BrahMos missile weighs approximately three tonnes, limiting a Sukhoi-30 fighter aircraft to carrying one missile, according to the supplied report. By comparison, the BrahMos Next Generation (NG) is expected to weigh around 1.3 tonnes. This could allow a Sukhoi-30 to carry up to three missiles, subject to aircraft integration and operational requirements.
The lighter design could also make the missile suitable for smaller fighter aircraft, including the Tejas and Rafale. The project is expected to incorporate newer technologies and lightweight materials.
In an interview with ANI, Joshi said the missile had demonstrated capabilities beyond its initial strike range of 290 kilometres. The report also states that extending the missile’s range to 1,500 kilometres is part of the company’s longer-term roadmap.
However, the proposed 1,500-kilometre-range version remains at the planning stage, rather than being an operational capability. Discussions with Russia are reportedly ongoing in connection with the proposal.
The BrahMos programme is a joint venture between India and Russia and forms part of India’s broader missile development efforts. A lighter next-generation variant could offer greater flexibility in aircraft deployment, although its final specifications, testing schedule and operational induction timeline remain subject to development progress.
