The first flight test of the Russian-Indian hypersonic missile BrahMos-2 is expected in 2027–2028. This is reported by the Indian publication IDRW, considering the prospects of the joint project against the backdrop of development delays and disagreements over technology transfer.
BrahMos-2 is intended to be the hypersonic continuation of the Russian-Indian BrahMos cruise missile family. The project involves creating a missile with a ramjet engine capable of speeds of 5 Mach and above. Previously, target values of up to 7–8 Mach were mentioned for it, but the stated characteristics still need to be confirmed by tests.
Project preparation has been delayed. According to IDRW, the timeline is affected by the high estimated cost of the missile and difficulties with transferring technologies necessary for creating a hypersonic propulsion system. The publication also points to competition for resources from other developments, including the more compact BrahMos-NG missile.
The expected first flight will be an important stage in testing the design and engine in real conditions. However, it will not in itself mean the completion of development or the missile's readiness for serial production: further tests will be required for this.