Key points
- ULPGM-V3 launched from quadcopter at Kurnool range
- New missile features dual-channel seeker, modular design
- ULPGM-V3 doubles range over previous V2 variant
ISLAMABAD: The Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced test-launch of an extended-range version of its Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM) from an unmanned airborne platform.
Named the ULPGM-V3, the missile was deployed from a quadcopter-style UAV at the National Open Area Range (NOAR) in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, on 25 July, according to an official statement from the MoD.
In a major boost to India’s defence capabilities, DRDO successfully carried out flight trials of UAV Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3 in the National Open Area Range (NOAR), test range in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. ULPGM-V3 is an enhanced version of the ULPGM-V2 missile… pic.twitter.com/WMqSzfgYmw
— DRDO (@DRDO_India) July 25, 2025
The ULPGM-V3 is an upgraded version of the lightweight, short-range air-to-surface ULPGM-V2, which was developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
The ULPGM-V3 features a modular design with a slightly extended cylindrical body and is “equipped with a high-definition dual-channel seeker capable of engaging a broad range of targets,” the MoD said, reports The Hindu.
Operational capability
It also boasts day-and-night operational capability and is fitted with a two-way datalink, allowing for target or aim-point updates after launch. The missile can be launched in both flat and high-altitude terrains, the ministry added.
The ULPGM-V3 was first showcased at Aero India 2025 in February by Adani Defence and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) under the name UAV Launched Missile – Extended Range (ULM-ER). According to Adani Defence, the ULM-ER has a maximum range of 4 km during daylight hours and 2.5 km at night.
The MoD confirmed that Adani Defence and BDL are the development and production partners for the ULPGM project.
By comparison, the earlier ULPGM-V2 offers a range of up to 2.5 km in daylight and 1.5 km at night.
