Unveiled by DRDO at a defense exhibition in Hyderabad, the BM-04 is India’s next-generation short-range ballistic missile (SRBM) designed for high-precision conventional strikes.
Key Specifications
- Length: 10.2 meters
- Diameter: 1.2 meters
- Weight: 11,500 kg
- Range: Up to 1,500 km
- Warhead: 500 kg conventional (non-nuclear) payload
- Accuracy: 30-meter Circular Error Probability (CEP) — indicates high precision
- Propulsion: Two-stage solid-fuel system
- Canisterized, which allows the warheads to be mated with the delivery systems in advance
- Launch Platform: Six-wheel indigenous TEL (Transport Erector Launcher)
- Guidance: Uses IRNSS (Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System) + GPS
- Canisterized: Yes — allows rapid launch, better mobility, and storage longevity
Strategic Intent
- The BM-04 is reportedly tailored for targeting Pakistan, indicating a counterforce strategy — i.e., targeting military assets rather than civilian infrastructure.
- Its capabilities suggest India is pursuing a more robust conventional deterrence posture, reducing reliance on nuclear options.
- Enhanced maneuverability, speed, and precision align with trends in next-gen missile warfare, allowing for rapid, preemptive, or retaliatory strikes with minimal collateral damage.
(Sources: The Diplomat & ET)
