DRDO’s Long-Duration Scramjet Test
On 9th January 2026, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) achieved a major breakthrough in hypersonic missile technology by successfully conducting a long-duration ground test of its Actively Cooled Scramjet Full-Scale Combustor.
The test demonstrates India’s growing capability in advanced propulsion systems needed for sustained hypersonic flight and next-generation missile technologies.
Why is this Important?
Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket (ERASR)
India conducted successful user trials of the Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket (ERASR) from INS Kavaratti.
The ERASR is a state-of-the-art underwater weapon system developed indigenously by DRDO to target hostile submarines.
Key Details of ERASR
Aspect
Details
Full Form
ERASR stands for Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket.
Weapon Type
A state-of-the-art underwater weapon system
Gandiva
In March 2025, the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) renamed Astra Mk-III, India’s most advanced air-to-air missile, as Gandiva, after Arjuna’s legendary bow from the Mahabharata.
The missile is expected to redefine Beyond Visual Range (BVR) aerial combat by combining long-range strike capability with advanced ramjet propulsion.
Key Features of Gandiva Missile
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Details
Original Name
Earlier know
VSHORADS
On 1st February 2025, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted three flight trials of the Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) from Chandipur off the coast of Odisha.
The trials demonstrated the system’s precision in intercepting low-altitude aerial threats.
What is VSHORADS?
Component
Details
Full Form
VSHORADS stands for Very Short-Range Air Defence System.
System T