June 27th 2024.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has recently announced the successful completion of six consecutive development trials of the High Speed Expendable Aerial Target, also known as 'ABHYAS'. These trials were conducted at the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha and have showcased an improved booster configuration.
According to a statement released by the Defence Ministry on Thursday, this brings the total number of development trials for ABHYAS to 10, proving the system's reliability. The recent trials involved testing the system with improved Radar Cross Section, Visual and Infrared augmentation systems, and successfully validating various mission objectives such as safe release of the booster, launcher clearance, and endurance performance.
What's even more impressive is that two launches were conducted within a short gap of 30 minutes, demonstrating the ease of operation and minimal logistics required for ABHYAS. Representatives from the Services were present to witness the flight trials, further showcasing the system's capabilities.
ABHYAS was designed by DRDO's Aeronautical Development Establishment in Bengaluru and developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and Larsen & Toubro. It offers a realistic threat scenario for weapon system practice and is an indigenous system designed for autonomous flying with the help of an auto pilot and a laptop-based Ground Control System. The system also has the capability to record data during flight for post-flight analysis.
The booster for ABHYAS was designed by Advanced Systems Laboratory, while the navigation system was developed by Research Centre Imarat. With production agencies already identified, ABHYAS is now ready for mass production, as stated by the Defence Ministry.
Expressing his appreciation for the successful development trials of ABHYAS, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the efforts of DRDO, the Armed Forces, and the industry, highlighting the effective collaboration between scientists and industry. Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, Samir V Kamat, also congratulated the teams involved, acknowledging the system's cost-effectiveness and significant export potential.
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