Why in news?
India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) announced on 18 May 2026 that final development trials of the third‑generation Unmanned Aerial Vehicle‑Launched Precision‑Guided Missile (ULPGM‑V3) had been successfully completed near Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. The system is now ready for induction into the armed forces.
Background
ULPGM is a family of man‑portable, fire‑and‑forget anti‑armour missiles designed to be launched from UAVs or by infantry. The V3 variant, developed under the Make‑in‑India initiative, builds on earlier versions to provide longer range and improved guidance. Research Centre Imarat in Hyderabad led the project, with contributions from other DRDO laboratories and industry partners.
Main features of ULPGM‑V3
- Dual‑channel seeker: The missile uses a high‑resolution day–night imaging seeker, enabling operations in both visible and infrared bands.
- Range and mobility: It can engage targets up to 4 km during daylight and around 2.5 km at night. Weighing about 12.5 kg, the weapon is light enough for carriage by infantry and can also be mounted on various UAVs.
- Warhead options: Modular warheads include tandem‑charge shaped charges effective against reactive armour and pre‑fragmented blasts for anti‑personnel or anti‑aircraft roles.
- Fire‑and‑forget capability: Once launched, the missile autonomously guides itself to the target, allowing operators or drones to reposition immediately.
- Indigenous development: The missile and its ground control station were developed entirely in India with significant participation from micro‑, small‑ and medium‑sized enterprises. Industry partners included Bharat Dynamics Limited and Adani Defence Systems.
Significance
- The system will enhance India’s ability to neutralise armoured threats and low‑flying aerial targets from unmanned platforms without exposing soldiers.
- Successful trials demonstrate progress toward self‑reliance in precision‑guided munitions and align with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
- DRDO officials say the missile is ready for mass production and integration on multiple UAV types, supporting combined arms operations.
Conclusion
The ULPGM‑V3 adds a versatile and indigenous precision‑guided weapon to India’s arsenal. Its lightweight design, advanced seeker and modular warheads make it suitable for neutralising modern armoured targets while reducing risk to human operators.
Sources: PIB