The Indian Air Force has officially inducted the Rampage long-range supersonic air-to-ground missiles. These missiles can strike targets at distances of around 250 kilometers, marking a substantial addition to Bharat’s defense capabilities.
Originally known as the High-Speed Low Drag-Mark 2 missile within the Indian Air Force, the Rampage missile gained prominence after its reported usage by the Israeli Air Force in recent operations targeting Iranian installations.
Currently, the Indian Air Force has integrated the Rampage missiles into its fleet of Russian-origin aircraft, including the Su-30 MKI, MiG-29 fighters, and Jaguar fighter jets. In addition, the Bharatiya Navy has also included these missiles in its arsenal for the MiG-29K naval fighter jets.
With the induction of Rampage missiles, Bharatiya fighter pilots have gained a versatile option for engaging and neutralizing various high-value targets, such as communication centers and radar stations.
The procurement of these missiles was facilitated by emergency powers granted by the Defense Ministry to the armed forces, particularly in response to heightened tensions along the border with China since 2020.
Notably, the Rampage missiles boast a longer range compared to the Spice-2000s utilized during the Balakot air strikes in 2019, further enhancing India’s offensive capabilities. The Indian Air Force has strategically diversified its weapon systems, incorporating both long-range systems from international vendors and indigenous solutions.
Recently in a demonstration of its technological prowess, the Indian Air Force successfully tested the ROCKS missile, also known as the Crystal Maze-2, in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands territory.
This air-launched ballistic missile showcased precise targeting capabilities, further underscoring Bharat’s advancements in defense technology.
The integration of Rampage missiles with Russian Su-30 aircraft marks a significant advancement, enabling these platforms to launch multiple long-range air-to-ground missiles, including the BrahMos supersonic missiles with a strike range of over 400 kilometers.
This integration not only enhances the strike capabilities of the Russian aircraft fleet but also underscores Bharat’s commitment to leveraging diverse defense partnerships.
Looking ahead, the Indian Air Force is exploring the possibility of producing Rampage missiles under the Make in Bharat program, aiming to bolster domestic manufacturing capabilities while ensuring the availability of critical defense assets in large numbers.
This strategic move aligns with Bharat’s broader objectives of enhancing self-reliance in defense production and strengthening its position as a formidable force in the region.
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