DRDO Tests Indigenous ULPGM-V3 Missile

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) completed the final development trials of the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3 on 19 and 20 May 2026. The trials took place at a DRDO test range near Kurnool in Andhra Pradesh and used an integrated Ground Control System for command and control.

ULPGM-V3 Features

The ULPGM-V3 is an indigenous missile system designed for launch from unmanned aerial vehicles. It has an extended range of about 10 kilometres and uses a high-definition dual-channel seeker for day and night operations. The missile also carries modular warheads.

Operational Roles and Target Types

The ULPGM-V3 has been tested in both air-to-ground and air-to-air modes. It can engage ground-based targets such as tanks and airborne threats such as drones and helicopters. The missile was earlier tested for anti-armour roles in July 2025 at the National Open Area Range in Kurnool.

Development and Industrial Partners

Research Centre Imarat served as the nodal laboratory for the project. The system was developed with support from other DRDO laboratories, micro, small and medium enterprises, and private industry partners including Bharat Dynamics Limited, Adani Defence Systems & Technologies, and Newspace Research and Technologies.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Defence Research and Development Organisation is India’s premier defence research agency under the Ministry of Defence.
• Precision guided missiles use seekers and guidance systems to improve target accuracy.
• Dual-channel seekers can support operations in different light conditions, including day and night.
• Modular warheads allow different payload configurations for specific mission requirements.

Research Centre Imarat is a DRDO laboratory based in Hyderabad, Telangana. Bharat Dynamics Limited is a public sector defence company involved in missile production in India.