Key Highlights:
- Location: Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha
- Developed By: DRDO's Aeronautical Development Establishment in Bengaluru, with contributions from other Indian laboratories and industries
- Date: Thursday, April 18,2024
Test Details:
- Subsystem Performance: All subsystems performed as expected during the test.
- Monitoring Sensors: Range Sensors like Radar, Electro-Optical Tracking System (EOTS), and Telemetry were deployed by ITR at various locations to monitor the missile's performance.
- Flight Monitoring: The flight of the missile was also monitored from an IAF Su-30-Mk-I aircraft.
Missile Performance:
- Navigation: The missile followed the desired path using waypoint navigation.
- Flight Path: Demonstrated very low altitude sea-skimming flight.
Propulsion System:
- Indigenous Development: The test established the reliable performance of the indigenous propulsion system developed by Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), Bengaluru.
Reactions and Congratulatory Messages:
- Defence Minister's Statement: Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, calling the successful development of the indigenous long-range subsonic cruise missile a major milestone for Indian defence R&D.
- DRDO Chairman's Congratulatory Message: Secretary Department of Defence R&D and DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V Kamat also congratulated the entire DRDO team for the successful test flight.
Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile (ITCM) successfully flight tested today from ITR Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha. ITCM is long range subsonic cruise missile powered by indigenous propulsion system @PMOIndia @DefenceMinIndia @SpokespersonMoD pic.twitter.com/wLlpV4wHkx
— DRDO (@DRDO_India) April 18, 2024
Additional Information:
- Advanced Avionics: The ITCM missile is equipped with advanced avionics and software for better performance.
- Production Partners: Representatives from the production partner witnessed the test alongside senior scientists from various DRDO laboratories.
Summary
The successful test-firing of the Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile marks a significant achievement for India's defence research and development efforts. The missile's performance and the reliability of its indigenous propulsion system showcase India's growing capabilities in missile technology. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the DRDO team and its partners, highlighting India's progress in developing advanced defence systems.