To strengthen India’s military power, the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) has successfully conducted the final test of a drone-launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM-V3). This missile can engage enemies in both air-to-ground and air-to-air modes. This achievement is part of the government’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” campaign, which makes India more capable of producing cutting-edge military technology on its own.
The DRDO has successfully test-fired a new drone-launched missile (ULPGM-V3) in Andhra Pradesh. The test was conducted at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) test range near Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. The missile can engage targets in both air-to-ground and air-to-air environments with precision. According to the Ministry of Defence, the tests validated the missile’s performance against tanks, drones, helicopters, and other aerial threats, highlighting its multi-role operational capability.
Officials said the ULPGM-V3 is a fire-and-forget precision-guided missile designed for launch from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The system uses an advanced seeker mechanism and modular warhead configuration, enabling it to adapt to multiple combat situations. Defence experts believe the missile will significantly improve the Indian Armed Forces’ tactical strike capabilities in modern battlefield scenarios.
The missile trials were carried out using an integrated Ground Control System (GCS) equipped with automated launch and readiness technologies. The system was integrated with UAV platforms developed by Newspace Research and Technologies, Bengaluru, for the ongoing trials. Officials noted that the successful testing confirmed the operational readiness of the weapon system for future deployment and mass production.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO scientists, public sector undertakings, and private industry partners for the achievement. He described the successful trials as a “strategic milestone” in India’s defence modernisation programme and praised the growing collaboration between government agencies and domestic defence manufacturers.
The ULPGM-V3 missile was developed by several DRDO laboratories, primarily the Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in Hyderabad. The Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL), and the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL) also contributed. Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Adani Defence Systems designed and manufactured the missile.
Officials said the successful tests demonstrated that India now possesses the full capability to manufacture and supply drones (unmanned aerial vehicles). This strengthens India’s ambition to become a major global defense hub. Defense experts believe this will significantly enhance India’s capabilities in future conflicts.
