India completes testing of unmanned aerial vehicle
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully completed six consecutive developmental trials of High Speed Expendable Aerial Target (HEAT) 'Abhyas' with improved booster configuration from the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, Odisha, the Defence Ministry said on Thursday.
With this, Abhyas has successfully completed 10 development tests demonstrating the reliability of the system, a statement said. The tests were carried out with improved radar cross section, visual and infrared augmentation systems. During the tests, various mission objectives covering safe release of booster, launcher clearance and endurance performance were successfully validated, it was informed.
With this, the exercise has successfully completed 10 developmental tests demonstrating the reliability of the system. Defence sources said the tests were conducted with improved radar cross section, visual and infrared augmentation systems. During the tests, various mission objectives covering safe release of booster, launcher clearance and endurance performance were successfully validated. Sources said, “Two consecutive launches were carried out in a span of 30 minutes, demonstrating the ease of operations with minimal logistics. Representatives of defence services witnessed the flight tests.”
Designed by DRDO's Aeronautical Development Establishment, Bengaluru, Abhyas provides a realistic threat scenario for practicing weapon systems. This indigenous system is designed for autonomous flight with the help of laptop-based ground control system for auto-pilot, aircraft integration, pre-flight checks and autonomous flight. It can record data during the flight for post-flight analysis. DRDO Chairman and Secretary, Department of Defence R&D Samir V Kamat congratulated the teams involved in the successful flight test. He said the system is cost-effective and has great export potential.
