DRDO Successfully Conducts Maiden Flight-Test of Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile

Chandipur: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) achieved a significant milestone today with the successful maiden flight-test of the Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM). The missile was launched from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha, using a mobile articulated launcher. The test validated the performance of all sub-systems, meeting the mission’s primary objectives as monitored by a range of sensors, including radar, an electro-optical tracking system, and telemetry equipment deployed by ITR to cover the entire flight path.

During the flight-test, the missile followed its designated trajectory using way-point navigation, showcasing its advanced capability to execute complex maneuvers at varying altitudes and speeds. The missile is equipped with sophisticated avionics and software, designed for enhanced accuracy and reliability.

The LRLACM was developed by DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Establishment in Bengaluru, with contributions from several DRDO laboratories and Indian industries. Bharat Dynamics Limited in Hyderabad and Bharat Electronics Limited in Bengaluru, the two Development-Cum-Production-Partners, have been integral to the missile’s development and integration. Senior DRDO scientists and representatives from India’s armed services, the future users of this missile system, witnessed the test.

The LRLACM is approved by the Defence Acquisition Council as a Mission Mode Project, sanctioned with an Acceptance of Necessity. It is designed to be launched from ground-based mobile launchers as well as from frontline naval ships equipped with universal vertical launch module systems.

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the Armed Forces, and industry partners on this successful maiden test. He stated that this achievement paves the way for future indigenous cruise missile programs in India’s defense sector. Additionally, Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, commended the entire DRDO team for their efforts in achieving this critical advancement in India’s defense capabilities.