DRDO Successfully Tests UAV-Launched ULPGM-V3 Missile, Bolstering Defence Tech

In a significant stride towards strengthening India's indigenous defence capabilities, the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted flight trials of its advanced Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM-V3). The tests were carried out at the National Open Area Range (NOAR) in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, showcasing the missile's enhanced performance and technological maturity.

The newly tested ULPGM-V3 represents the next evolution in India's air-launched precision-guided weaponry and is an upgraded version of the previously developed ULPGM-V2. This development reaffirms India's ability to innovate and integrate cutting-edge systems into its growing defence architecture.

Advanced Seeker Technology & Operational Flexibility

At the heart of the ULPGM-V3 system lies its high-definition dual-channel seeker, a critical component enabling the missile to engage a diverse set of targets with high precision. The seeker, which supports day-and-night operations, enables the missile to function effectively across various terrains, including plain and high-altitude regions.

The missile also features a two-way data link, allowing real-time communication between the missile and its operator. This capability supports mid-course guidance and post-launch target or aim-point updates, dramatically increasing flexibility and operational control in dynamic battlefield scenarios.

Modular Warhead Configurations for Multiple Combat Needs

ULPGM-V3 is a multi-role weapon system tailored to meet the demands of modern combat through three distinct modular warhead options:

1. Anti-Armour Warhead: Specifically designed to destroy advanced armoured vehicles. This configuration is capable of penetrating Rolled Homogeneous Armour (RHA) enhanced with Explosive Reactive Armour (ERA).

2. Penetration-cum-Blast Warhead: Suited for bunker-busting operations, providing deep penetration before delivering a high-energy blast.

3. Pre-fragmentation Warhead: Offers a wide lethality zone, ideal for anti-personnel or lightly armoured target engagements.

The current set of trials focused on the anti-armour configuration, which met all mission objectives during the test.

A Collaborative Defence Ecosystem

The development of ULPGM-V3 represents a joint effort of six DRDO laboratories:

• Research Centre Imarat (RCI)

• Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL)

• Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL)

• High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL)

• Integrated Test Range (ITR)

• Defence Electronics Research Laboratory (DLRL)

In a major push towards self-reliance and private sector participation, the missile was launched from an indigenously developed UAV built by Newspace Research & Technologies, a Bengaluru-based Indian start-up.

DRDO is also actively pursuing integration of ULPGM-V3 with long-range and high-endurance UAVs developed by other Indian companies, expanding the ecosystem for unmanned precision strike capabilities.

Role of Industry, Startups, and Defence Partners

The successful development of the ULPGM-V3 system is a testament to India’s collaborative defence production model. Over 30 MSMEs and start-ups contributed to the realization of this system, along with Development-cum-Production Partners (DcPPs):

• Adani Defence

• Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), Hyderabad

These industry partnerships underscore the success of the Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative in the defence sector.

Leadership Remarks and Strategic Significance

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, its industrial collaborators, DcPPs, and MSMEs on the success, stating:

“This is a testament to the growing readiness of Indian industry to absorb and produce advanced defence technologies, essential for a strong and self-reliant nation.”

Dr. Samir V Kamat, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman, DRDO, echoed the sentiment, saying:

“The development of such advanced precision-guided munitions is the need of the hour. It not only enhances our defence capabilities but also demonstrates the capability of our ecosystem to deliver critical technologies.”

A New Chapter in India's Defence Modernization

The ULPGM-V3 project is more than just a technological advancement—it is a strategic enabler for India’s armed forces. As future conflicts increasingly pivot towards unmanned, precision, and network-centric warfare, this indigenous missile system positions India to respond swiftly and effectively.

This successful trial adds to a growing list of indigenous achievements in defence R&D, reinforcing India's aspiration to become a global leader in next-generation warfare technologies.