A drone-launched precision-guided missile has been successfully test-fired by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) at a test range in Andhra Pradesh.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh informed over social media today, that the flight trials were carried out in Kurnool.

 The Defence Minister’s post says that “In a major boost to India’s defence capabilities, DRDO has successfully carried out flight trials of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3 in the National Open Area Range, a test range in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh.”

India’s defence capabilities have received a significant boost as the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully test-fired a drone-launched precision-guided missile at a test range in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced the successful flight trials, marking a major milestone for the nation’s defence technology.

The Defence Minister also noted that the missile system was developed in collaboration with industry partners, including Defence Capital Procurement Partners (DcPPs), micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and start-ups.

Congratulating DRDO and its partners, he said, “This success proves that the Indian industry is now ready to absorb and produce critical defence technologies.”

Designed, developed and tested by DRDO, the ULPGM-V3, also referred to as ULM-ER (extended-range variant), is an advanced version of DRDO’s UAV-launched precision munition, and features passive homing using an imaging infrared (IR) seeker, allowing for accurate engagement in both day and night conditions.

 The 12.5-kg fire-and-forget air-to-surface missile is powered by a compact dual-thrust solid propulsion unit, enabling it to reach a maximum range of 4 km during daytime operations and 2.5 km at night. It also incorporates a two-way datalink for communication and offers multiple warhead options to engage a variety of static and moving targets.