NATIONAL: India Tests Game-Changing ULPGM-V3 Drone Missile
Successful Trial at NOAR
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted flight trials of the UAV-Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM-V3) at the National Open Area Range (NOAR) in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. This milestone enhances India’s indigenous drone warfare capabilities.
Ministerial Endorsement
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh announced the achievement on X, commending DRDO, MSMEs, and startups for their collaborative efforts. He highlighted the trial as evidence of India’s ability to develop and produce advanced defense technologies.
Technical Advancements
While specifics of ULPGM-V3 remain classified, it builds on the ULPGM-V2 platform, featuring enhanced imaging infrared seekers and dual-thrust propulsion. The missile is designed for precision strikes with a range of up to 4 km in daytime and 2.5 km at night.
Strategic Importance
Developed for Tapas-BH and Archer-NG UAVs, ULPGM-V3 offers cost-effective, fire-and-forget capabilities for close combat. Its lightweight design and multi-warhead options enable versatile targeting of static and moving assets.
NOAR’s Role
The 2,200-acre NOAR facility, inaugurated in 2016-17, supports testing of advanced systems like directed energy weapons and electronic warfare technologies. Its selection underscores DRDO’s strategy to validate cutting-edge munitions in real-world conditions.
Industry Collaboration
The project involves key partners like Adani and Bharat Dynamics Limited, reflecting India’s push for self-reliance under Aatmanirbhar Bharat. The trial signals robust industrial capacity for rapid technology absorption.
Future Prospects
Unlike indoor-tested systems, outdoor trials at NOAR expedite deployment to armed forces. ULPGM-V3 is poised to strengthen India’s strategic flexibility in modern combat scenarios.