TFP Bureau New Delhi; June 27, 2024: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully completed six consecutive developmental trials of the High Speed Expendable Aerial Target (HEAT) ‘ABHYAS’ with an improved booster configuration at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, Odisha. This achievement marks the successful completion of 10 developmental trials, underscoring the system’s reliability.
The recent trials featured enhancements in Radar Cross Section, Visual, and Infrared augmentation systems. Key mission objectives, including the safe release of the booster, launcher clearance, and endurance performance, were successfully validated. Notably, two launches were conducted within a 30-minute interval, showcasing the system’s operational efficiency and minimal logistical requirements. The flight trials were witnessed by representatives from the Services.
Designed by DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Establishment in Bengaluru, ABHYAS has been developed with the collaboration of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and Larsen & Toubro. It provides a realistic threat scenario for weapon systems practice and is capable of autonomous flight using an autopilot system. The aircraft integrates with a laptop-based Ground Control System for pre-flight checks and autonomous operations. The system also features in-flight data recording for post-flight analysis. The booster was designed by the Advanced Systems Laboratory, and the navigation system by Research Centre Imarat. ABHYAS is now ready for production with identified production agencies.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh commended DRDO, the Armed Forces, and the industry for the successful developmental trials of ‘ABHYAS’. He highlighted the tests as a testament to the synergy between scientists and the industry.
Dr. Samir V Kamat, Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, congratulated the teams involved in the successful flight trials. He emphasized that the system is cost-effective and has significant export potential.
