DRDO Successfully Test-Fires Drone-Launched Missile ULPGM-V3

India has made a significant leap in indigenous defence capabilities with the successful flight trials of the UAV-Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). This marks an important milestone in India’s efforts toward self-reliance in high-end military technology.

Background

The ULPGM project is part of India’s broader push to integrate advanced missile systems with Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). The recent trial was conducted at the National Open Area Range (NOAR) in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. The missile has been developed in collaboration with Indian private sector partners including MSMEs, start-ups, and Defence Capital Procurement Partners (DcPPs).

Significance

The successful test of ULPGM-V3 highlights India’s growing competence in drone warfare and precision strike technologies. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the test as proof of Indian industry’s readiness to absorb and produce critical defence technologies, enhancing the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Key Features

• The ULPGM-V3, also called ULM-ER (Extended Range), is a fire-and-forget air-to-surface missile.
• It weighs 12.5 kg and uses passive homing with an imaging infrared seeker, making it effective both day and night.
• The missile has a dual-thrust solid propulsion unit and a maximum range of 4 km (day) and 2.5 km (night).
• It supports a two-way datalink and offers multiple warhead options for engaging static and moving targets.
• The missile is manufactured in partnership with Adani and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), while DRDO leads the design and testing.

Variants

The ULPGM comes in three known variants,

• ULPGM V1 – Baseline prototype.
• ULPGM V2 – Production-ready model.
• ULPGM V3 (ULM-ER) – Extended-range with upgraded guidance and range.