The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) recently achieved a significant milestone with the successful flight test of its Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile (ITCM). This missile boasts advanced avionics and software, ensuring enhanced and dependable performance.
Conducted from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha, on April 18, 2024, the test saw the participation of the Indian Air Force's Su-30-Mk-I aircraft, which monitored the missile's flight.
During the test, all subsystems functioned as anticipated, with various Range Sensors such as Radar, Electro Optical Tracking System (EOTS), and Telemetry providing comprehensive coverage of the flight path from different locations.
Employing waypoint navigation, the missile successfully adhered to its desired trajectory, executing very low altitude sea-skimming flight maneuvers. This achievement underscores the reliability of the indigenous propulsion system, developed by the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) in Bengaluru.
The brainchild of the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), a DRDO laboratory in Bengaluru, in collaboration with other national laboratories and Indian industries, this successful flight test marks a significant step forward in indigenous missile technology. The presence of senior scientists from various DRDO laboratories and production partners underscored the collaborative effort behind this accomplishment.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commended DRDO for the successful test, emphasizing the significance of developing an indigenous long-range subsonic cruise missile powered by indigenous propulsion. DRDO Chairman, Dr. Samir V. Kamat, extended congratulations to the entire team for their dedication and expertise in achieving this milestone.
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