DRDO Successfully Conducts Maiden Test of Long-Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM)

Sub : Sci

Sec : Defence

Why in News

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) recently carried out the first test flight of a newly developed Long-Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM).

About LRLACM:

The DRDO conducted the initial test flight of the LRLACM, a long-range cruise missile, using a mobile articulated launcher. This missile launch took place from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha.
The missile has been designed and developed by the Aeronautical Development Establishment, Bengaluru, a division of DRDO.
With an operational range of up to 1,000 kilometers, the LRLACM is capable of engaging long-distance land targets.
This missile is an improved variant of the Nirbhay cruise missile, featuring enhanced capabilities for improved targeting and accuracy.
The Defence Acquisition Council had approved the procurement of the LRLACM in July 2020, highlighting its strategic importance to India’s defence apparatus.
The LRLACM shares operational similarities with the U.S. Tomahawk cruise missile, enhancing India’s ability to conduct precise strikes without exposing assets to enemy fire.
This development is aligned with India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, promoting self-reliance in defense technologies.

About Cruise Missiles:

A cruise missile either locates its target or has a preset target.
It navigates using a guidance system — such as inertial or beyond visual range satellite GPS guidance — and comprises a payload and aircraft propulsion system.
Cruise missiles can be launched from land, sea or air for land attacks and anti-shipping purposes, and can travel at subsonic, supersonic and hypersonic speeds.
Since they stay relatively close to the surface of the earth, they cannot be detected easily by anti-missile systems, and are designed to carry large payloads with high precision.