ARDE develops Dhruvastra missile with advanced warhead options.
The Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) in Pune is reportedly developing the Dhruvastra air-to-surface missile, designed to carry Penetration-Cum-Blast (PCB) and thermobaric warheads. This initiative reflects India’s strategic focus on enhancing its airborne munitions, allowing for flexible targeting capabilities against armoured vehicles, fortifications, and soft targets. While details about the missile’s specific application—whether for rotary or fixed-wing platforms—remain unclear, the project indicates a significant advancement in India’s defense technology, potentially offering a cost-effective precision strike option. The development not only strengthens India’s military capabilities but may also position it for future defense exports, enhancing its geopolitical standing in the region.