Context:

• The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted a test flight of the UAV-Launched Precision-Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3 at the National Open Area Range (NOAR) in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh.

Key Highlights:

• This achievement marks a major step toward strengthening India’s indigenous defence capabilities and integrating drone-based precision weapons in modern warfare.

Test Details:

• Date & Location: July 25, 2025, at NOAR, Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh.

• • NOAR is a 2,200-acre electronic warfare testing centre.
• Missile & UAV:

• • ULPGM-V3 was launched from an indigenous UAV developed by NewSpace Research & Technologies (Bengaluru).
  • It is an advanced version of ULPGM-V2.
• Industry Collaboration:

• • Developed with support from Adani Defence, Bharat Dynamics Ltd (BDL), and over 30 MSMEs/startups.

Technical Features:

• High-Definition Dual-Channel Seeker:

• • Equipped with Imaging Infrared (IIR) and S-Band RF Seeker for day-night operations.
• Range:

• • Up to 4 km by day, and 2.5 km by night.
• Propulsion:

• • Dual-thrust solid propulsion unit.
• Warhead Options:

• • Anti-Armour: Effective against RHA and ERA-equipped vehicles.

• • Penetration-cum-Blast: Bunker-busting capability.
  • Pre-fragmentation: High lethality area damage.
• Two-Way Datalink:

• • Allows target updates post-launch.
• Lightweight Design:

• • Weighs just 12.5 kg, compatible with Tapas-BH and Archer-NG drones.

Strategic Significance:

• Modern Warfare:

• • Use of drone-based missiles has increased by 300% (RUSI, 2023). ULPGM-V3 enables low-altitude precision strikes.
• Reduced Risk:

• • Targets can be attacked without exposing troops in high-risk zones.
• Cost-Effective:

• • Indigenous ‘fire-and-forget’ weapon system.

About DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation) :