FACT CHECK: Is India building a long-range bomber that could 'hit' New York

For the past few days, news portals have been abuzz with speculative claims and reports that said India is building an ultra-long-range strategic bomber with a range of over 12,000 kilometres. The reports further claimed that such a bomber could strike across continents, potentially reaching targets such as New York or Beijing without needing to refuel.

 

Some reports claimed that this bomber was inspired by the American B-21 Raider or the Russian TU-160, and would have highly advanced stealth features, radar-absorbing materials, and automated avionics.

 

However, the ministry of defence has now come out with a clarification, saying that such reports are “fabricated.”

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“Some media houses reported a story that India is planning to build a long-range bomber (12000km) that could hit New York/strike across continents without needing to refuel. This story is incorrect and fabricated,” a statement from the ministry of defence read.

 

The defence ministry said no such proposal has ever been discussed at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

 

“Defence beat journalists are requested to cross-check their stories with the concerned before going ahead,” the MoD statement added.

Defence