Why in the News?

On 12^th November 2024, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted the maiden flight test of the Long-Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM) off the coast of Odisha. This significant achievement marks a milestone in India's defense capabilities, showcasing advancements in indigenous missile technology.

About Long-Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM)

• It is a completely indigenous missile, with most components sourced locally except for a few sensors and accelerometers.
• It is subsonic missile, capable of flying at low altitudes along terrain-hugging paths, making it harder to detect and intercept by enemy defense systems.
  • Like international systems like the US Tomahawk and Russia’s Kalibr, which are known for precise, long-range strikes.
• These are essential for modern military arsenals, enabling long-distance, stand-off strikes against strategic targets while keeping the launch platform and personnel safe.
• Developed By: DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) in Bengaluru,
• Production Partners: Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), Hyderabad, and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Bengaluru, have collaborated in the missile's integration and deployment.
• Launch Platforms: The missile is designed for both ground-based and naval deployment. It can be launched from mobile ground platforms and ships using a Universal Vertical Launch Module (UVLM), which is already operational on 30 Indian Navy vessels.
• Range: The missile has a planned range exceeding 1,000 kilometers.