DRDO successfully tests indigenous UAV-launched precision missile ULPGM-V3

DRDO has completed the final development trials of the ULPGM-V3 in air-to-ground and air-to-air modes. The result strengthens India's indigenous precision-strike programme and supports the Aatmanirbhar Bharat push.

In Short

• Trials at Kurnool used an integrated control system for automated operations
• The missile can strike tanks and engage drones, helicopters and aerial threats
• Research Centre Imarat led development with three DRDO laboratories supporting it

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully completed the final development trials of the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3 in both air-to-ground and air-to-air modes, marking a major milestone for India’s indigenous defence capabilities and the government’s push for “Aatmanirbhar Bharat”.

Equipped with a high-definition dual-channel seeker for day-night operations and modular warheads, the fully indigenous system was launched from an Indian UAV during tests at Kurnool's National Open Area Range, building on 2025 anti-armour trials.

The trials were conducted at the DRDO test range near Kurnool using an integrated Ground Control System (GCS) designed to command and control the missile system. Officials said the advanced GCS incorporates state-of-the-art technologies that automate launch readiness and operational control.

According to DRDO, the ULPGM-V3 has demonstrated capabilities in engaging ground-based targets such as tanks as well as airborne threats including drones, helicopters and other aerial platforms.

The missile system has been developed by Research Centre Imarat as the nodal laboratory in collaboration with several other DRDO facilities, including the Defence Research and Development Laboratory, Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory and High Energy Materials Research Laboratory.

For production and industrial collaboration, DRDO has partnered with Bharat Dynamics Limited and Adani Defence Systems and Technologies. The missile system was integrated with unmanned aerial vehicles developed by Newspace Research and Technologies for the current trials.

Officials said the missile has been developed entirely through India’s domestic defence ecosystem with contributions from multiple MSMEs and private industries. The successful trials also confirmed the readiness of a fully indigenous supply chain capable of supporting serial mass production.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, defence public sector undertakings, industry partners and MSMEs for the achievement. He described the successful development of the ULPGM-V3 as a “strategic milestone” towards self-reliance in the defence sector.

Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and DRDO Chairman Samir V Kamat also praised the teams involved in the trials and termed the achievement a significant step in strengthening India’s indigenous precision-strike capabilities.

- Ends