India Tests ULPGM‑V3 Drone Missile

India has taken a significant leap in indigenous defence capabilities with the successful flight trials of the ULPGM‑V3 missile, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

This advanced UAV-launched missile is designed to enhance India's precision strike capability, marking a crucial step toward the Aatmanirbhar Bharat defence missile project and reducing dependence on foreign technology.

Background of ULPGM‑V3 Missile India

The ULPGM missile (UAV-Launched Precision Guided Missile) project is part of India’s broader defence modernisation and self-reliance plan. The recent ULPGM V3 missile test in Kurnool was conducted at the National Open Area Range (NOAR) in Andhra Pradesh.

• The missile was designed and developed under DRDO’s guidance, with active collaboration from private industries such as Adani and BDL missile collaboration India, along with contributions from MSMEs, start-ups, and Defence Capital Procurement Partners (DcPPs).

• The DRDO missile program aims to integrate cutting-edge technology like imaging infrared seekers, extended-range capabilities, and two-way data links into the UAV missile platform.

• This milestone reflects India’s advancement in drone-guided missile technologies, which are crucial in modern warfare scenarios.

Significance of ULPGM‑V3 Missile India

The successful testing of the ULPGM‑V3 missile by India highlights India’s growing expertise in missile technology and precision missile development. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described the achievement as a testament to the Indian industry’s ability to absorb and manufacture critical defence technologies.

The ULPGM India trials are not just a technological breakthrough but also a strategic move, strengthening India's position in drone warfare and missile advancements. With the rise of unmanned combat systems, having an indigenous guided missile like the ULM‑ER missile (Extended Range) provides a major operational advantage.

Key Features of ULPGM‑V3 Missile India

The ULPGM V3 DRDO variant, also known as the ULM‑ER missile, is a state-of-the-art precision missile with the following features:

• Weight: The missile weighs around 12.5 kg, making it lightweight and suitable for drone deployment.

• Guidance System: It uses passive homing with an imaging infrared seeker, enabling accurate targeting both day and night.

• Range: The maximum range is 4 km during the day and 2.5 km at night, classifying it as an extended-range missile.

• Propulsion: It is powered by a dual-thrust solid propulsion unit.

• Target Engagement: The missile is capable of engaging both static and moving targets, thanks to its advanced DRDO UAV weapons guidance systems.

• Warhead Options: It offers multiple warhead configurations for different combat scenarios.

• Two-way Data Link: This feature allows improved operator control and mission flexibility.

These ULM ER missile features make the ULPGM‑V3 missile a formidable addition to India’s defence arsenal.

Variants of the ULPGM Missile

The UAV-launched missile has three known variants:

• ULPGM V1: The baseline prototype.

• ULPGM V2: The production-ready model with improved reliability.

• ULPGM V3 (ULM‑ER): The advanced extended range missile with upgraded guidance and performance.

Industrial Collaboration and Aatmanirbhar Bharat

The Adani and BDL missile collaboration in India is a prime example of public-private partnership in the defence sector. DRDO’s leadership in design and testing, combined with manufacturing by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Adani Defence, showcases how India’s private sector is contributing to India’s indigenous drone missile technology.

This achievement aligns with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat defence missile project, promoting domestic innovation and reducing imports of high-end weapon systems.

Relevance for SSC Exams

For SSC aspirants, the ULPGM‑V3 missile, India, is an important topic under current affairs and general awareness. Key points to remember for exams:

• Developer: DRDO in collaboration with Adani and BDL.

• Type: UAV-launched precision-guided missile.

• Range: 4 km (day) and 2.5 km (night).

• Test Location: National Open Area Range, Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh.

• Significance: Part of India’s push for self-reliance in advanced Indian missile tech and drone-guided missile systems.

Final Thoughts

The ULPGM‑V3 missile India marks a revolutionary step in India’s defence capabilities, showcasing the nation’s ability to design and manufacture advanced UAV-launched precision-guided missile systems. With the DRDO missile technology, Adani and BDL missile collaboration in India, and the focus on Aatmanirbhar Bharat defence missile project, India is steadily reducing its dependency on foreign defence imports.

The successful ULPGM India trials in Kurnool have proven India’s competence in precision strike technologies, which are vital for modern warfare scenarios involving drone missiles and unmanned combat systems.

The lightweight design, extended range missile performance, and guided missile technology make ULPGM‑V3 (ULM‑ER) a game-changer.