Why in the News? 

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh virtually inaugurated the BrahMos missile production facility in Lucknow, marking a major leap towards India's self-reliance in defence manufacturing.  

About BrahMos Missile 

• Type: Supersonic cruise missile 
• Developed by: BrahMos Aerospace, a joint venture between India’s DRDO and Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyenia 
• Launch Capability: Land, sea, and air-based 
• Guidance System: Fire-and-forget 

BrahMos Missile 

Next-Generation BrahMos 

• Weight: 1,290 kg (reduced from 2,900 kg) 
• Air Capability: Sukhoi jets can carry 3 missiles instead of 1 
• Production Readiness: Expected to be delivered within one year