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New Delhi. The role of technology in modern warfare is increasing rapidly and in this direction, India is also focusing on next generation weapons. Especially preparations for operations in ‘Near Space’ and weapons with hypersonic speed have intensified.

What is hypersonic weapon?

Hypersonic weapons are those which fly at a speed at least 5 times the speed of sound (Mach 1) or faster i.e. Mach 5+.
Its features:

Extremely high speed (up to 5,000–25,000 km/h)
ability to maneuver
difficult to detect with radar
Ability to dodge conventional missile defense systems

These are generally divided into two types:

Hypersonic Glide Vehicle (HGV)
hypersonic cruise missile
What is ‘Near Space’ and why is it important?

‘Near space’ is the region between about 20 and 100 kilometers from the Earth’s surface—that is, the part between the atmosphere and space.

This is the zone where future wars may be fought, because:

It is possible to monitor the entire world from here
Real-time monitoring of enemy activities
Ideal area for missile and drone operations
What is India’s preparation?

Defense Research and Development Organization has started work on ‘Near Space’ technologies. These include:

Airships and high-altitude platforms
Hypersonic Glide Vehicle
AI based surveillance system
Solar-powered drone
surveillance balloon

Along with this, India is also planning to create ‘Near Space Command’, which can increase the capability of the Air Force manifold.

Why important in the context of China and Pakistan?

According to reports, China is already active in this region and has made ‘near space’ a part of its military strategy.

In such a situation, it has become necessary for India also to:

strengthen your monitoring capabilities
Keep an eye on enemy missiles and activities in advance
Can respond quickly and accurately when needed

In case of any future conflict, these techniques can be used against countries like Pakistan and China.

What will this change?
The pace and strategy of war will change completely
Traditional defense systems may become less effective
The area between space and air will become the new battlefield

Overall, hypersonic weapons and ‘near space’ technology are going to be the biggest measure of military power in the times to come—and India is now rapidly moving ahead in this race.