DRDO’s ULPGM-V3 Missile Trials Mark Breakthrough in Drone Warfare
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully completed final development trials of the indigenous ULPGM-V3 missile at Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh.
Conducted in both air-to-ground and air-to-air modes, the trials mark a significant leap in India’s drone warfare and precision strike capabilities.
Development trials of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Launched Precision Guided Missile-V3 in Air-to-Ground & Air-to-Air modes was successfully completed at DRDO test range near Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. pic.twitter.com/Hl3AuJhsMP
— DRDO (@DRDO_India) May 19, 2026
The ULPGM-V3, also known as ULM-ER, is a fire-and-forget, extended-range missile designed for UAVs and combat drones. It can neutralize tanks, stationary targets, moving vehicles, helicopters, drones, and other airborne threats with advanced targeting precision.
Developed by DRDO’s Research Centre Imarat in collaboration with multiple defence labs, the missile is entirely indigenous, involving MSMEs, private industries, and PSUs. Production partners include Bharat Dynamics Limited and Adani Defence, while UAV integration was carried out with Newspace Research and Technologies.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the achievement as a milestone under Aatmanirbhar Bharat, emphasizing its role in strengthening India’s self-reliance in defence technology. DRDO Chairman Samir V Kamat also praised the successful trials, highlighting the missile’s strategic importance in future UAV-based warfare.
With this breakthrough, India has significantly enhanced its capabilities in drone warfare, precision strikes, anti-tank operations, and counter-drone combat.
