Made-in-India UAV missile clears final trials, boosts Andhra’s defence hub dreams

Kurnool: In a major boost for India’s indigenous defence capabilities, the Defence Research and Development Organisation has successfully completed final trials of the advanced ULPGM-V3 precision guided missile in Andhra Pradesh.

The Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3 was tested in both air-to-ground and air-to-air modes at the DRDO test range near Kurnool. The trials mark the completion of the missile’s final deliverable configuration, paving the way for induction into the armed forces. A key highlight was the use of an integrated Ground Control System that automates readiness and launch operations.

DRDO scientists said the GCS will reduce operator workload and improve mission turnaround time for UAV weapon systems. The success strengthens Andhra Pradesh’s growing role as a national defence manufacturing hub.

The State and Union governments have been working to build a robust ecosystem for aerospace and defence production in the region. That vision got another push recently when Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh jointly laid the foundation for a new Aircraft Integration and Flight Testing Complex in Satya Sai district.

Built by DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Agency, the ₹15,803 crore facility will anchor future testing and certification of indigenous aircraft, drones, and weapon systems. Together, the ULPGM-V3 trials and the new ADA complex signal strong momentum for high-tech defence jobs and investment in Andhra Pradesh.

“These developments show India’s ability to design, test, and field complex UAV weapon systems end-to-end,” a DRDO official said. “It’s a proud moment for our scientists and for Andhra Pradesh.”