The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted a flight test of the Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile (ITCM) from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, located off the coast of Odisha. The test, conducted on Thursday, marked a major milestone in India’s indigenous missile development program.
A release issued by the Defence Ministry highlighted the successful performance of all subsystems during the test, meeting the expectations set for the trial. One of the key aspects of the test was the comprehensive monitoring of the missile’s performance throughout its flight path. This was accomplished using a range of sophisticated Range Sensors such as Radar, Electro-Optical Tracking System (EOTS), and Telemetry deployed by ITR at various locations. Additionally, real-time monitoring from the Su-30-Mk-I aircraft of the Indian Air Force added another layer of oversight to ensure accurate assessment.
The ITCM demonstrated its capability by precisely following the desired path using waypoint navigation and showcasing very low-altitude sea-skimming flight. This successful flight test not only validated the missile’s performance but also established the reliability of the indigenous propulsion system developed by the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) in Bengaluru.
Equipped with advanced avionics and software, the ITCM promises enhanced performance and reliability, making it a formidable asset for India’s defense arsenal. The missile’s development was spearheaded by the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) in Bengaluru, with contributions from various DRDO laboratories and Indian industries.
The successful test was witnessed by senior scientists from multiple DRDO laboratories, alongside representatives from production partners, underlining the collaborative effort that went into the missile’s development and testing phase.
Congratulatory messages poured in following the successful test. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO for achieving this milestone and emphasized the significance of developing indigenous long-range subsonic cruise missiles with native propulsion systems for India’s defense research and development.
Secretary, Department of Defence- Research and Development (R&D) & Chairman DRDO, Samir V Kamat, extended his congratulations to the entire team involved in the successful conduct of the ITCM launch, acknowledging their dedication and expertise in advancing India’s defense capabilities.
Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik also took to social media, tweeting his congratulations to DRDO for the successful flight test of the ITCM, recognizing it as a significant achievement for the country’s defense sector.
The successful flight test of the Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile not only showcases India’s technological progress in missile development but also strengthens its strategic capabilities, contributing to the nation’s self-reliance in defense technologies.