India Fires Precision Missile from Drone in Major Defense Leap: ULPGM-V3 Tested

Key Highlights:

• Indigenous Precision: DRDO successfully flight-tested the ULPGM-V3, a precision-guided missile designed for launch from drones (UAVs).
• Tested in Andhra: The crucial trials were conducted at the National Open Area Range (NOAR) in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh.
• Strategic Boost: The missile enhances India’s ability to conduct accurate strikes in difficult terrain with reduced risk to personnel.

In a significant stride for India’s indigenous defense capabilities, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted flight trials of a cutting-edge missile system designed to be launched from drones. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced the milestone on Friday, hailing it as a “major boost” to the nation’s military prowess.

The tested weapon, known as the UAV Launched Precision Guided Missile-Version 3 (ULPGM-V3), underwent its crucial flight evaluation at the National Open Area Range (NOAR) test facility in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. Minister Singh shared the news via social media platform X, emphasizing the achievement’s importance.

“This success proves that the Indian industry is now ready to absorb and produce critical Defence Technologies,” Singh stated, extending congratulations to DRDO scientists and a wide network of industry partners, including Development-cum-Production Partners (DcPPs), MSMEs, and Start-ups involved in the project.

The ULPGM-V3 is engineered specifically for deployment from Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). This capability is strategically vital, equipping the Indian armed forces to execute highly accurate strikes against targets situated in challenging and complex terrains. Crucially, it allows for this precision firepower to be delivered while significantly minimizing the direct risk to military personnel operating on the ground.

Beyond validating the missile’s performance parameters in flight, this successful test serves as a powerful testament to the growing maturity and technical depth of India’s domestic defence-industrial ecosystem. The development and testing of such advanced, niche weaponry underscore the nation’s accelerating progress towards self-reliance (Atmanirbharta) in critical defence technologies.