Advanced Hypersonic Weapons Systems in the Global Market: Witnessing a rapid Evolution.

In recent years, hypersonic missile launchers have been developed, actively empowering the defense forces of countries like the US, Russia, China, and India. This upsurge in geopolitical tension has increased investment in research and development activities. Hypersonic missiles, capable of flying over Mach 5, represent a significant advancement in aerospace and defense technology, offering unparalleled speed and range compared to conventional ballistic missiles. These missiles have several advantages over traditional ballistic missiles, including helpful information, shorter warning time, and better offense-defense balance. The market for hypersonic missiles is increasing due to technological advancements, government investments, and the need for faster and more effective military operations. The major countries concerned continue investing heavily in hypersonic missile research and development, so that the global market is ready for nuclear development and innovation in the coming years. 

Latest Developments in Hypersonic Market: 

Recent developments in the hypersonic missile market indicate a volcanic scenario. Key trends include increased investment by government heads in hypersonic missile technology, with countries investing heavily in research and development to enhance their military capabilities. For example, Lockheed Martin influenced speed-to-market with the hypersonic Scorpio, securing contracts worth millions from the US Air Force and Army. High investment costs, shortage of skilled labor persisting in the market, increased demand for advanced technology, and the growing defense sector post-pandemic are expected to drive growth. Hypersonic missiles traveling at speeds of Mach 5 are vital components of defense bases, providing superior stability and security. Future market projections indicate a promising outlook with further growth and market opportunities.

Some of the latest technological advancements in hypersonic missiles: 

This incorporates ongoing innovation and advancements in hypersonic missile technology, focusing on speed and sustainment to meet multiple defense threats at a world-class level.  

• Hypersonic Glide Vehicle (HGV): A rocket is launched before heading to any target, offering final passage to the destination. They do not follow ballistic trajectories like conventional missiles, leading to the development of their theories and principles.  
• Hypersonic cruise missiles: Powered by high-speed aero-breathing engines or scramjets, these missiles provide increased speed and maneuverability compared to conventional cruise missiles and can maneuver within Earth’s reach.  
• Detection and Defense Missiles: Hypersonic weapons challenge the detection and defense missiles due to their speed, stealth, and low flight altitude. Terrestrial-based radar systems struggle to detect hypersonic weapons until late in their flight path, making them harder to track and intercept.  
• Technical Challenges: Developing and managing high temperatures at hypersonic speeds are critical technical challenges that arise during hypersonic flight.  
•  Government Investment: Major countries like the US, Russia, China, and Germany are investing heavily in the research and development of hypersonic missiles, stealth jets, and other emerging weapons to strengthen their defense. For the US, the US presented its budget example for hypersonic research in fiscal year 2023 at the summit, which details how to pursue these vestiges.

Expectation of Hypersonic Weapons Market in Next 5 Years: 

The hypersonic missile market will grow significantly in the next 5 years. The market size for hypersonic missile is estimated to be approximately US$8.56 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach US$16.40 billion by 2030, and is witnessing significant growth and innovation. Key trends include a surge in government investment in hypersonic missile technology, with significant countries heavily investing in research and development to enhance their military capabilities. The market’s future projections indicate a promising outlook with opportunities for further advancements and strategic initiatives.

Development of Hypersonic Technology Market in India: 

India’s hypersonic missile development program shall witness significant growth and development. Since 2007, India, in collaboration with Russia, has been working on supersonic and hypersonic versions of BrahMos missiles, which are specific to both countries. New advancements in hypersonic technology will drive market growth and provide opportunities for expansion and innovation.   

In August 2016, the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) successfully tested two indigenously developed scramjet engines. Indian BrahMos missiles are developed using scramjet propulsion for ignition and constant combustion at the hypersonic stream. In 2020, India’s defense research agency, DRDO, tested the Hypersonic Technology Demonstration Vehicle (HSTDV) based on air-breathing scramjet technology used for propulsion. Reports suggest that the HSTDV reached a speed of Mach 6 for 23 seconds during testing.  

India’s focus on reusable technology is an ideal step forward, with studies indicating hypersonic enrichment over the next 5-7 years. These trends add to the growing importance and investment in hypersonic engagement, positioning India. It is a significant player in the emerging market.  

Current status of hypersonic missile development in India:  

1. India is getting Russia’s cooperation to develop a supersonic and hypersonic version of the BrahMos missile, which will be exclusive to India and Russia.  

2. India is a signatory to the Missile Technical Control Regime (MTCR), which prohibits missiles and related equipment. It means that the supersonic and hypersonic versions of the BrahMos missile are helpful only for India and Russia.  

3. In December 2021, on the instructions of the Defense Minister, India conducted several tests to develop hypersonic weapons.  

4. India’s re-projection of missile technology is considered a certainty in the shadow of China, with experts like Pillai predicting that India’s arsenal will include hypersonic missiles in the next 5-7 years.  

India’s hypersonic missile development is in progress, focusing on growth in collaboration with Russia. The country needs to step up its defense forces in this area.