The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has effectively executed a test flight of an Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile (ITCM) from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) located in Chandipur, along the coast of Odisha. Throughout the test, all subsystems functioned as anticipated. Various Range Sensors, including Radar, Electro-Optical Tracking System (EOTS), and Telemetry, were strategically positioned by ITR across different locations to ensure comprehensive monitoring of the missile's performance along its flight trajectory.
The flight of the missile was also monitored by IAF Su-30-Mk-I aircraft. “The missile followed the desired path using waypoint navigation and demonstrated very low altitude sea-skimming flight," the Defence Ministry said in a release. “This successful flight test has also established the reliable performance of the indigenous propulsion system developed by Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), Bengaluru", the release added.
Congratulating the DRDO for the successful flight test of the ITCM, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, "The successful development of indigenous long-range subsonic cruise missile powered by indigenous propulsion is a major milestone for Indian defence R&D". Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V Kamat congratulated the entire DRDO team on the successful conduct of the ITCM launch.
The ITCM missile incorporates cutting-edge avionics and software to enhance its performance reliability. Developed by the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), a DRDO laboratory based in Bengaluru, the missile benefited from collaborative efforts involving other laboratories and Indian industries. Previously, the Indian Army conducted successful field trials of a domestically-produced man-portable anti-tank guided missile (MPATGM) system, clearing the path for its integration into the army's arsenal.
According to officials, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) spearheaded the design and development of the weapon system. Comprising the MPATGM, launchers, target acquisition device, and fire control unit, the entire system is adept for operation during both daylight and nighttime conditions.