November 13, 2024: In a significant milestone for India's defense capabilities, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted the maiden flight test of its Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM) on Tuesday. The test, which took place at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) off the coast of Chandipur in Odisha, marks a major advancement in India's strategic missile technology.

The missile, launched from a mobile articulated launcher, performed flawlessly during the test, with all subsystems functioning as expected. According to DRDO officials, the LRLACM met all primary mission objectives, demonstrating exceptional accuracy, reliability, and performance.

The missile’s flight path was closely monitored by a range of sensors, including Radar and Electro-Optical Tracking Systems, deployed at multiple locations along the ITR to ensure complete coverage. These tracking systems helped to verify the missile's trajectory and its ability to carry out complex maneuvers while flying at varying altitudes and speeds.

The LRLACM is equipped with cutting-edge avionics and sophisticated software that allow it to follow a pre-programmed path via waypoint navigation. The missile’s ability to perform advanced maneuvers adds to its versatility, making it a potent addition to India’s defense arsenal.

Developed by the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) in Bengaluru, the missile is the result of extensive collaboration between DRDO laboratories and various defense industries. Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) from Hyderabad and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) from Bengaluru have played key roles in the missile’s development and integration, working as the Development-Cum-Production Partners.

The test was attended by senior scientists from various DRDO laboratories, as well as representatives from India’s three military services, who witnessed the missile’s successful flight.

The LRLACM is part of India's strategic defense modernization and is designed to be launched from both ground-based mobile launchers and frontline naval ships using a universal vertical launch system. Approved under the Defence Acquisition Council’s "Mission Mode Project," the missile enhances India's capability to conduct precision strikes at long ranges, providing a vital tool for safeguarding national security.