The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) achieved a significant milestone with the successful flight test of the Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile (ITCM) off the Odisha coast.
Launched from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, the missile test was confirmed by the Defence Ministry to have met all expected performance parameters.
The ITCM, a key advancement in India's defence arsenal, was closely monitored throughout its flight path. This monitoring was conducted using a variety of Range Sensors including Radar, Electro-Optical Tracking Systems (EOTS), and Telemetry strategically positioned by ITR. Additionally, the flight was tracked from a Su-30-Mk-I aircraft operated by the Indian Air Force, ensuring robust surveillance and data collection.
Highlighting the capabilities of the ITCM, the missile demonstrated its ability to navigate to predetermined waypoints and perform very low-altitude sea-skimming flight, a technique that helps avoid radar detection.
This test not only validates the missile's operational efficacy but also the reliability of its indigenous propulsion system developed by the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) in Bengaluru.
The ITCM incorporates sophisticated avionics and software that enhance its performance and reliability, underscoring India’s growing proficiency in indigenous defence technology development.
This project saw collaborative efforts from Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), other DRDO laboratories, and various Indian industries, showcasing the integrated approach towards defence research and development in the country.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed his congratulations to the DRDO team for this significant achievement, emphasising that the development of an indigenous long-range subsonic cruise missile powered by an indigenous propulsion system marks a major leap in India’s defence R&D.
Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, Samir V Kamat, also extended his commendations to the team involved in this successful missile launch, highlighting its importance to national defence capabilities.
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