NEWS – Indian Army’s Prachand Light Combat Helicopter successfully conducts a high-altitude firing

HIGHLIGHTS

• The test took place  at the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha.
• Significance: This missile, once operational, will be the world’s longest-range non-nuclear cruise missile, with the capability to strike targets 1,000 km away.

Development and Features of the Missile

• Developing Organization: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
• Designed to launch both from mobile ground launchers and from ships equipped with universal vertical launch modules.
• Payload Capacity: exceeding 450 kg.
• It is an advanced iteration of the Nirbhay cruise missile, an earlier DRDO design.

Performance and Technical Aspects

• The missile followed the planned trajectory using waypoint navigation.
• Capabilities Demonstrated:
  • Capability to perform complex maneuvers.
  • Demonstrated operation at various altitudes and speeds.
• All subsystems met their objectives and performed as expected during the test, according to a defence ministry spokesperson.

Contribution and Partnerships

• Led by DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Establishment in Bengaluru.
• Bharat Dynamics Limited, Hyderabad, and Bharat Electronics Limited, Bengaluru, collaborated as development-cum-production partners.

Strategic Importance and Future Prospects

• Approved four years ago, this test marks a significant step in India’s indigenous missile development program.
• This success will aid in the development of future Indian cruise missile programs, enhancing the country’s defence capabilities.