New Delhi: In a significant boost to India’s defence self-reliance efforts, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted flight trials of the UAV-Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3. The test was carried out at the National Open Area Range (NOAR) in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, showcasing India’s growing expertise in advanced weaponry.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded the successful trial, calling it a “major boost” to India’s missile capabilities. He emphasized that the achievement reflects the domestic industry’s increasing capacity to absorb and produce critical defence technologies. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Singh congratulated DRDO and its industry partners—including Development-cum-Production Partners (DcPPs), MSMEs, and start-ups—for their role in the development and testing of the system.
The ULPGM-V3 is a next-generation, precision-guided missile designed to be launched from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). It is intended for high-accuracy strikes while minimizing risks to personnel. Building on previous versions, the V3 variant includes significant upgrades such as an Imaging Infrared (IIR) seeker for advanced target acquisition, a dual-thrust propulsion system for enhanced range and speed, and a lightweight frame suitable for various UAV platforms.
This latest version follows the ULPGM-V2, developed by DRDO’s Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL). While the V2 variant was known for its operational flexibility with multiple warhead configurations, the V3 advances the system with better guidance, speed, and UAV compatibility, aligning with modern warfare needs.
The successful trial also highlights the growing strategic importance of the National Open Area Range (NOAR) in Kurnool, which has emerged as a premier testing facility for advanced defence technologies. NOAR has previously hosted trials for directed energy weapons and anti-drone systems, making it a critical part of India’s defence innovation ecosystem.
Beyond technological achievement, the ULPGM-V3 trial is a significant step forward for the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative in defence. With DRDO working in tandem with private firms, MSMEs, and start-ups, this milestone signals the strengthening of India’s indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities. As the country pushes to reduce dependency on foreign imports, the success of the ULPGM-V3 represents a powerful stride towards self-sufficiency in high-tech military systems.
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