Precision from the skies gets sharper as DRDO successfully tests its next-gen UAV-launched missile ULPGM-V3, boosting India’s strike capabilities and defence self-reliance.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has completed successful flight trials of its latest Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3 at the National Open Area Range (NOAR) in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh.
The ULPGM-V3 is an upgraded version of the earlier ULPGM-V2, featuring improved targeting capabilities. It is designed for use in both plain and high-altitude regions and includes day-and-night operational capability.
Furthermore, the system incorporates a high-definition dual-channel seeker and two-way data link, allowing real-time post-launch target updates.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the DRDO and its partners, calling the successful test an example of Indian industry’s growing capability in advanced defence technology.
The missile offers three modular warhead options: anti-armour for modern armoured vehicles with ERA protection, a penetration-blast variant for bunkers, and a pre-fragmentation type for high lethality against soft targets. The current test focused on the anti-armour configuration.
Additionally, the DRDO collaborated with several of its labs, including the Research Centre Imarat and the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory, for the development. The missile was launched from a UAV developed by Bengaluru-based start-up Newspace Research Technologies.
DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V Kamat highlighted the missile’s development as a timely achievement and praised the collaborative efforts that made the trial a success.
DRDO is also working to integrate the missile with other long-range and endurance UAVs from Indian manufacturers. Industry partners include Adani Defence and Bharat Dynamics Limited, as well as contributions from approximately 30 MSMEs and startups.
