DRDO Successfully Tests Drone-Launched Guided Missile
Why in News?
In the latest India news, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted a drdo test of the ULPGM-V3, a precision guided munition launched from a drone, at Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. This achievement marks a significant advancement in India’s indigenous defence capabilities and UAV-based strike technologies.

Successful Missile Trial and Capabilities:
● The ULPGM-V3 (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Launched Precision Guided Missile) was tested in Kurnool, showcasing sophisticated enhancements in drone-based weapon systems.
● It features fire-and-forget capability with infrared (IR) homing, ensuring accuracy in day and night conditions, rivaling the capabilities of the renowned Agni missile series.
● Powered by a dual-thrust solid propulsion unit, this precision guided munition can hit targets at 4 km (day) and 2.5 km (night).
● The missile incorporates a two-way datalink and supports multiple warhead options for static and moving targets.
● This trial marks a significant boost to India’s strike capabilities via UAVs, showcasing the country’s progress in critical defence technologies.
Strategic Significance and Future Outlook
● Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised DRDO and industry partners, including Bharat Dynamics Limited, for this milestone in precision guided munition development.
● The successful test demonstrates India’s capability to integrate UAVs and precision weapons for tactical operations.
● This advancement enhances air-to-surface combat options without risking pilot lives, a key consideration in modern warfare.
● The ULPGM-V3 will be useful in border surveillance, counter-terrorism, and precision strikes, adding to India’s defense arsenal alongside other systems like directed energy weapons.
● This achievement paves the way for further joint development with private and strategic partners in the field of sophisticated enhancements for defense.
| About DRDO and Indigenous Development: ● DRDO is India’s premier agency for defence R&D, operating under the Ministry of Defence.● It focuses on developing strategic defence technologies like missiles, UAVs, and combat systems, including directed energy weapons. ● The ULPGM-V3 was developed with Defence Capital Procurement Partners (DcPPs), MSMEs, and startups, showcasing a collaborative approach to critical defence technologies. ● This project emphasizes the shift towards self-reliance in defence (Atmanirbhar Bharat). ● DRDO’s work supports Make in India by enabling industry to absorb and produce critical defence technologies, including precision guided munition systems. |