NEW DELHI: In another significant advancement in missile technology, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted a successful flight-test of the Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM) on Monday. The test was carried out from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, located off the coast of Odisha.
Successful Test and Data Validation
According to a release from the defence ministry, all test objectives were fully achieved. Data captured by various tracking instruments deployed by the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur confirmed the missile's performance. The successful flight-test marks a crucial milestone in India's indigenous missile development programme.
Indigenous Development and Collaboration
The LRLACM is a fully indigenously developed missile, with all sub-systems designed and manufactured by various DRDO laboratories and Indian industry partners. The Aeronautical Development Establishment in Bengaluru served as the nodal laboratory for the project. This collaboration underscores the strength of India's defence industrial base.
Advanced Capabilities and Range
The LRLACM is an advanced, indigenous cruise missile with an expected range of up to 1,500 kilometers. It is considered an upgraded successor to the Nirbhay missile programme. The missile is designed to strike targets at long ranges with pinpoint precision, maneuvering across multiple altitudes and speeds. This capability makes it a formidable asset for the Indian Armed Forces.
Comparison with US Tomahawk
The LRLACM is often described as India's equivalent of the US Tomahawk cruise missile. Both are subsonic, low-flying, and highly precise, capable of hitting land targets from hundreds of kilometers away. This comparison highlights the strategic importance of the LRLACM in enhancing India's long-range strike capabilities.
Witnesses and Congratulatory Messages
The launch was witnessed by senior officials from DRDO, as well as user representatives from the Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the DRDO team and industry partners on the successful flight-test. Defence Secretary and DRDO Chairman Rajesh Kumar Singh monitored all activities during the launch and extended his congratulations to all team members involved in the successful test.
This achievement reinforces India's commitment to self-reliance in defence technology and strengthens national security.
