DRDO Successfully Test-Fires Drone-Launched Precision-Guided Missile in Andhra Pradesh
In a significant boost to India’s indigenous defence capabilities, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted the flight trials of a drone-launched precision-guided missile at the National Open Area Range in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced the development via social media, stating that the trials mark a major milestone in India’s defence technology. “In a major boost to India’s defence capabilities, DRDO has successfully carried out flight trials of the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3,” he wrote.
The missile, also referred to as ULM-ER (Extended Range variant), is an upgraded version of DRDO’s UAV-launched precision munition. Designed, developed, and tested entirely by DRDO, the missile features passive homing technology through an imaging infrared (IR) seeker, allowing precise engagement of targets in both day and night conditions.
Weighing 12.5 kg, the fire-and-forget air-to-surface missile is equipped with a compact dual-thrust solid propulsion system, offering a maximum range of 4 km in daylight and 2.5 km at night. It also integrates a two-way datalink for improved communication and comes with multiple warhead options, enabling it to effectively neutralize both static and moving targets.
The Defence Minister also highlighted the collaborative efforts involved in the missile’s development, praising the role of industry partners, including Defence Capital Procurement Partners (DcPPs), micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and start-ups.
“This success proves that Indian industry is now capable of absorbing and producing critical defence technologies,” Singh remarked, congratulating DRDO and its partners for the achievement.
