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DRDO Successfully Test-Fires ULPGM‑V3: India’s Drone-Launched Precision Missile Marks a New Era in Warfare

 In a significant leap for India's indigenous defense capabilities, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully test-fired the third version of the UAV-Launched Precision Guided Munition (ULPGM‑V3). This precision-guided missile, fired from a domestically developed drone, represents a major milestone in India's journey towards autonomous warfare systems and high-precision tactical strike capabilities.

The test took place on July 25, 2025, at the National Open Area Range (NOAR) near Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. The successful demonstration has bolstered India's standing among nations developing drone-launched guided munitions, putting it in the company of countries like the U.S., Israel, and China

What Is ULPGM-V3? 
Drone launching ULPGM-V3 precision missile during DRDO field trial in India
 DRDO Tests ULPGM-V3

ULPGM‑V3 stands for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Launched Precision Guided Munition – Version 3. It is a third-generation precision strike missile designed to be launched from drones and unmanned platforms. Compared to its predecessors, V3 introduces critical upgrades such as:

  • Dual-Channel Seeker: Capable of operating in both visible and infrared spectrums, allowing effective targeting both during day and night.

  • Two-Way Data Link: This allows the missile to receive updates mid-flight, adjusting to moving or new targets in real time.

  • Extended Range: The missile can engage targets over 10 kilometers away, giving the launching drone a standoff capability—keeping it at a safe distance from enemy defenses.

  • Advanced Warhead Options: ULPGM-V3 offers three interchangeable warhead types:

    • Anti-Armour: Designed to destroy tanks and armored vehicles, even those equipped with Explosive Reactive Armour (ERA).

    • Penetration-Cum-Blast: Ideal for fortified bunkers or enemy shelters.

    • Pre-Fragmented: Highly effective against infantry and soft-skinned vehicles.

These improvements make ULPGM‑V3 not just a guided bomb, but a next-gen precision strike system.

Developed in India, For India

What makes ULPGM‑V3 even more important is that it is entirely indigenous. The DRDO collaborated with private and public sector partners for this project, aligning with the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) vision.

  • The missile’s guidance and seeker systems were developed by DRDO labs including Research Centre Imarat (RCI) and Defence Electronics Research Laboratory (DLRL).

  • The launching UAV platform was developed by Newspace Research and Technologies, a Bengaluru-based start-up.

  • Production responsibilities have been handed to Adani Defence and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL).

  • Over 30 Indian MSMEs and start-ups also contributed, reflecting a strong defense ecosystem being nurtured in India.

Strategic Importance

ULPGM‑V3 addresses a critical capability gap for the Indian Armed Forces. Traditionally, engaging high-value or armored targets required either manned aircraft or costly loitering munitions. Now, with this missile:

  • Indian drones can hit targets without risking pilot lives.

  • Real-time guidance and datalink ensure adaptive targeting, crucial in fast-moving battlefields.

  • The missile works in extreme temperatures, ranging from −20°C to +60°C—making it suitable for deployment in regions like Ladakh, the Northeast, or Rajasthan.

Such capabilities are crucial in deterring both conventional threats and hybrid warfare scenarios, such as border standoffs, cross-border terrorism, or urban warfare.

What’s Next?

DRDO has already indicated future plans:

  • Integration with larger UAVs with higher endurance and payload.

  • Increasing the range beyond 10 km for deeper standoff strikes.

  • Developing AI-enabled autonomous targeting and swarm strike capability.

ULPGM‑V3 could eventually be part of autonomous drone swarms, capable of real-time battlefield assessment and precision strikes without human intervention.

Conclusion

India’s successful test of the ULPGM‑V3 is not just a technological feat but a clear signal of the country's ambition to be a self-reliant and modern defense power. With increasing border tensions and the evolving nature of warfare, such capabilities will play a critical role in defending national interests.

As India continues to invest in next-gen weapons and drone warfare, the ULPGM‑V3 stands out as a symbol of strategic foresight, indigenous innovation, and military modernization.


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