India is laying groundwork for a bomber that can hit targets over 12,000 kilometres away. This marks a sharp turn in defence policy, from regional focus to intercontinental reach. Defence analysts say this project, called the Ultra Long-Range Strike Aircraft (ULRA), could be a game changer for the Indian Air Force.
The Defence Ministry says modern warfare now cuts across cyber, space and long-range air strikes. China’s H-20 is moving fast, while the US holds an edge with its B-2 Spirit and the incoming B-21 Raider. A senior Air Force official said, “Our nuclear triad covers land and sea well, but we need a platform that can strike anywhere from the skies too.”
Lessons from the Russian TU-160 'Blackjack'
The Russian TU-160 ‘Blackjack’ remains the world’s heaviest and fastest supersonic bomber. Its range is about 12,300 kilometres and it can carry up to 40 tons. One DRDO engineer said, “We are looking at the TU-160 as a regional model and adapting what suits our needs best.”
India’s own version may use a swing wing design. This lets the wings change shape in flight to save fuel and control speed more efficiently over long distances.
Going further than the B-21 Raider
Northrop Grumman’s B-21 Raider should clock around 9,300 kilometres. India wants its bomber to fly past that limit. That means it could reach targets in the US, Europe, Africa or Australia without refuelling.
The plan includes stealth technology, radar dodging features and automated flight systems. The aim is clear: stay hidden, reach far, hit hard.
BrahMos-NG: Main weapon in the arsenal
One standout detail is its planned weapon load. The bomber will likely carry up to four BrahMos-NG missiles. Each can fly between 290 and 450 kilometres and strike enemy airfields, radars, command hubs or nuclear facilities in minutes.
A senior DRDO official said, “We also expect short-range ballistic weapons like the Agni-1P, laser bombs and anti-radiation missiles to be part of the final payload.”
Where will the technology come from
Building this from scratch is no small task. The government, DRDO, HAL and the Aircraft Development Agency are leading the charge. Technology talks are open with Russia and France for transfer deals. One key piece is the engine. Engineers might adapt the GE-414 or Russia’s NK-32 to fit the power and range needed.
What this means for India’s defence
A bomber that can fly this far changes the map. It gives India global strike options, stronger nuclear second-strike power and more leverage in the Indo-Pacific.
The Defence Ministry expects the first prototype to fly sometime between 2032 and 2035. While the design work is still early, dummy models and initial research have begun.
This new project shows India is thinking beyond self-reliance and regional balance. It reflects an ambition to back up its nuclear triad with a credible airborne platform. For a country that once focused mainly on border conflicts, this is a step into a much wider arena.
In simple terms, India’s message is clear. It wants to be ready, anywhere, any time.
The Defence Ministry says modern warfare now cuts across cyber, space and long-range air strikes. China’s H-20 is moving fast, while the US holds an edge with its B-2 Spirit and the incoming B-21 Raider. A senior Air Force official said, “Our nuclear triad covers land and sea well, but we need a platform that can strike anywhere from the skies too.”
Lessons from the Russian TU-160 'Blackjack'
The Russian TU-160 ‘Blackjack’ remains the world’s heaviest and fastest supersonic bomber. Its range is about 12,300 kilometres and it can carry up to 40 tons. One DRDO engineer said, “We are looking at the TU-160 as a regional model and adapting what suits our needs best.”
India’s own version may use a swing wing design. This lets the wings change shape in flight to save fuel and control speed more efficiently over long distances.
Going further than the B-21 Raider
Northrop Grumman’s B-21 Raider should clock around 9,300 kilometres. India wants its bomber to fly past that limit. That means it could reach targets in the US, Europe, Africa or Australia without refuelling.
The plan includes stealth technology, radar dodging features and automated flight systems. The aim is clear: stay hidden, reach far, hit hard.
BrahMos-NG: Main weapon in the arsenal
One standout detail is its planned weapon load. The bomber will likely carry up to four BrahMos-NG missiles. Each can fly between 290 and 450 kilometres and strike enemy airfields, radars, command hubs or nuclear facilities in minutes.
A senior DRDO official said, “We also expect short-range ballistic weapons like the Agni-1P, laser bombs and anti-radiation missiles to be part of the final payload.”
Where will the technology come from
Building this from scratch is no small task. The government, DRDO, HAL and the Aircraft Development Agency are leading the charge. Technology talks are open with Russia and France for transfer deals. One key piece is the engine. Engineers might adapt the GE-414 or Russia’s NK-32 to fit the power and range needed.
What this means for India’s defence
A bomber that can fly this far changes the map. It gives India global strike options, stronger nuclear second-strike power and more leverage in the Indo-Pacific.
The Defence Ministry expects the first prototype to fly sometime between 2032 and 2035. While the design work is still early, dummy models and initial research have begun.
This new project shows India is thinking beyond self-reliance and regional balance. It reflects an ambition to back up its nuclear triad with a credible airborne platform. For a country that once focused mainly on border conflicts, this is a step into a much wider arena.
In simple terms, India’s message is clear. It wants to be ready, anywhere, any time.
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