TestCloud
Prep • Practice • Perform
Log In

DRDO Successfully Conducts Flight Trials of Upgraded UAV-Launched Missile ULPGM-V3 in Andhra Pradesh.

Science and Technology | Dated: 26 Jul 2025

In July 2025, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully carried out flight trials of the upgraded Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)-Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3 at the National Open Air Range (NOAR) located in Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh (AP). This advanced missile is a next-generation variant designed for precision strikes with low collateral damage.

🎯 Key Highlights:

  • - The ULPGM-V3 is a fire-and-forget, precision-guided air-to-surface missile engineered for launch from UAV platforms. It is specifically built to neutralize both static and moving enemy targets while minimizing operational risk to personnel.
  • - This variant builds upon the previous ULPGM-V2, originally developed by DRDO’s Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL), and features improved accuracy, targeting, and control systems.
  • - The development of the ULPGM-V3 involved a strong partnership between DRDO and Indian defence industry players, including Development-cum-Production Partners (DcPPs),MSMEs, and indigenous start-ups. The missile was manufactured by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) in collaboration with Adani Defence Systems, showcasing the success of public-private defence initiatives in India.

💡 Other Important Facts:

  • (i) Technically, the ULPGM-V3 weighs 12.5 kg and uses a dual-thrust solid propulsion system, capable of targeting enemies up to 4 km during daylight and 2.5 km at night. It uses advanced Imaging Infrared (IIR) seeker technology to ensure accurate guidance even in low-light conditions and features tandem warheads optimized to defeat armour with Explosive Reactive Armour (ERA).
  • (ii) The missile's upgraded features include two-way communication links, enhanced imaging systems, and AI-enabled decision support to allow real-time changes in mission parameters.
  • (iii) ULPGM-V3 is compatible with multiple UAV platforms and provides India’s defence forces with a versatile and indigenous solution for precision strike missions across diverse terrains and threat environments.

📚 Test Your Knowledge:

Which organisation recently conducted successful flight trials of the UAV-Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3 in Andhra Pradesh?

Correct Answer: DRDO

🚀 Quick Recap:

About DRDO

  • Chairman : Dr. Samir Venkatapati Kamat
  • Headquarters: New Delhi