The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Tuesday successfully conducted the maiden flight-test of the Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM) from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha. The test was carried out using a mobile articulated launcher, and the missile performed as expected, meeting all primary mission objectives.
During the flight, the missile’s performance was carefully monitored through a range of sensors, including radar, electro-optical tracking systems, and telemetry equipment deployed at various locations along the missile’s flight path. The missile followed its designated path with waypoint navigation, demonstrating the ability to perform various maneuvers while flying at multiple altitudes and speeds. Equipped with advanced avionics and software, LRLACM is designed to ensure greater reliability and enhanced operational performance.
Developed by DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) in Bengaluru, LRLACM also saw collaborations from other DRDO laboratories and Indian industries. Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) in Hyderabad and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) in Bengaluru served as the Development-Cum-Production Partners, contributing to missile development and integration.
The missile is designed to be launched from mobile ground-based platforms using a mobile articulated launcher, as well as from frontline ships via a universal vertical launch module system. The test was attended by senior scientists from DRDO and representatives from the three Indian Armed Services, who are the intended users of the system.
Following the successful test, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the Indian Armed Forces, and industry partners for their efforts in achieving this significant milestone. He highlighted that the successful flight test of the LRLACM would pave the way for the development of future indigenous cruise missile programs.
The LRLACM is a Defence Acquisition Council-approved, Mission Mode Project sanctioned under the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN), marking a major step forward in India’s missile development capabilities.
