The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted the maiden flight test of its Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM) from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha, on November 12, 2024. Launched from a mobile articulated launcher, the missile met all primary mission objectives, with its sub-systems performing as expected. The missile’s flight was closely monitored by a network of range sensors, including radar, Electro-Optical Tracking Systems (EOTS), and telemetry, deployed across various locations by ITR to ensure comprehensive tracking of the missile’s flight path.
The missile followed the desired path using way point navigation and demonstrated its capability to perform various manoeuvres while flying at various altitudes and speeds. The missile is also equipped with advanced avionics and software to ensure better and reliable performance.
LRLACM has been developed by the Aeronautical Development Establishment, Bengaluru along with contribution from other DRDO laboratories and Indian industries. Bharat Dynamics Limited, Hyderabad and Bharat Electronics Limited, Bengaluru are the two Development-Cum-Production-Partners for LRLACM and they are engaged in the missile development and integration. The test was witnessed by senior scientists from various DRDO laboratories along with the representatives from the three Services, the users of the system.
LRLACM is a Defence Acquisition Council-approved, Acceptance of Necessity-sanctioned, Mission Mode Project. It is configured to launch from ground using mobile articulated launcher and also from frontline ships using universal vertical launch module system.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has complimented DRDO, Armed Forces, and the industry on the successful Maiden Flight Test. It paves the way for future indigenous cruise missile development programmes, he said.
Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat congratulated the entire team of DRDO on the successful maiden launch of LRLACM.
