India Plans Test of 500 Km Submarine Launched Cruise Missile, Defence Forces Seek Procurement Boost

India is preparing to conduct a test of a Submarine Launched Cruise Missile (SLCM) with a strike range of 500 kilometers next month, according to defense officials. The missile system, developed by the Defense Research and Development Organisation, will be a critical component of the indigenously manufactured submarines planned for Project 75 India by the Indian Navy. In addition, the Defense Ministry is expected to discuss the procurement of an 800-kilometer strike range land attack cruise missile this week, which would further strengthen India’s defense forces. The SLCM has two variants: the Land Attack Cruise Missile (LACM) and the Anti-Ship Cruise Missile (ASCM), and has demonstrated key technologies such as thrust vector control, in-flight wing deployment, and in-flight engine start. With the success of the BrahMos supersonic missiles, which can now target beyond 800 kilometers and have been exported to other countries, India also plans to offer the fully tested subsonic cruise missiles to friendly foreign nations. Indian industries Larsen and Toubro, Godrej, and Sameer are partnering with DRDO in the SLCM program and are likely to participate in future missile development projects. Overall, these advancements in missile capabilities will further enhance India’s defense capabilities and strengthen its position in the region.