India has taken a significant leap forward in its defence capabilities with the successful test-firing of a drone-launched precision-guided missile, the ULPGM-V3 (UAV Launched Precision Guided Missile), at the National Open Area Range (NOAR) in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. The test was carried out by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), marking a milestone in the integration of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) with precision strike capabilities.
The announcement came via Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to congratulate DRDO and its industry partners. “In a major boost to India's defence capabilities, @DRDO_India has successfully carried out flight trials of UAV Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3 in the National Open Area Range (NOAR), test range in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh,” he posted.
The Defence Minister lauded the collaborative effort behind the achievement, acknowledging the contributions of industry partners, Development-cum-Production Partners (DcPPs), Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and start-ups involved in the project. “This success proves that the Indian industry is now ready to absorb and produce critical Defence Technologies,” he added.
Platform: Launched from an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), demonstrating India's growing proficiency in drone-based warfare and strike capabilities.
Precision: The missile is guided, indicating advanced targeting systems and minimal collateral damage, making it suitable for tactical engagements.
Indigenisation: The missile system is a result of indigenous research and development, aligning with the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative in the defence sector.
Collaborative Development: The system was developed with the active participation of Indian industry stakeholders, showcasing the maturity of the domestic defence manufacturing ecosystem.
The successful trial of ULPGM-V3 enhances India's ability to engage in precision strikes from remotely operated platforms, a critical requirement in modern combat scenarios that demand agility, accuracy, and minimal human risk.
This development also underscores the DRDO’s growing capabilities in developing next-generation missile systems and its consistent focus on enabling India’s armed forces with cutting-edge technology.
Further technical specifications and operational capabilities of the ULPGM-V3 are expected to be released in the coming days. The successful test represents yet another stride in India's journey towards strengthening its military deterrence and strategic autonomy.
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