- DRDO has successfully completed six consecutive developmental trials of High-Speed Expendable Aerial Target (HEAT) ‘ABHYAS’.
- The trials incorporated enhancements in the Radar Cross Section, as well as visual and infrared augmentation systems, reflecting the ongoing improvements in the target’s performance.
- A remarkable aspect of these trials was the successful execution of two back-to-back launches within a short interval of 30 minutes, highlighting the ease of operation and minimal logistical requirements.
- Designed by DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Establishment in Bengaluru, ABHYAS was developed in collaboration with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and Larsen & Toubro.
- Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commended the DRDO, the armed forces, and the industry for the successful development of ABHYAS, praising the collaborative efforts that led to this achievement.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has marked a significant achievement with the successful completion of six consecutive developmental trials of the High-Speed Expendable Aerial Target (HEAT) ‘ABHYAS’. These trials were conducted at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, located in the Balasore district of Odisha. With this series of tests, ABHYAS has now completed a total of 10 developmental trials, showcasing the reliability and advanced capabilities of the system.
According to a statement released by the Ministry of Defence, the recent trials incorporated enhancements in the Radar Cross Section, as well as visual and infrared augmentation systems, reflecting the ongoing improvements in the target’s performance. The trials effectively validated several mission objectives, including the safe release of the booster, clearance from the launcher, and overall endurance performance.
A remarkable aspect of these trials was the successful execution of two back-to-back launches within a short interval of 30 minutes, highlighting the ease of operation and minimal logistical requirements. The trials were observed by representatives from the armed services, underscoring the strategic importance of ABHYAS in defense readiness.
Designed by DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Establishment in Bengaluru, ABHYAS was developed in collaboration with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and Larsen & Toubro. The system is engineered to simulate realistic threat scenarios for weapon systems testing and training. It is equipped with autonomous flying capabilities, facilitated by an autopilot, and can be managed through a laptop-based Ground Control System. Additionally, the system features onboard data recording for detailed post-flight analysis.
The booster for ABHYAS was designed by the Advanced Systems Laboratory, while the navigation system was developed by the Research Centre Imarat. With these recent successful trials, ABHYAS is now ready for production, positioning it as a cost-effective and export-ready asset for defense applications.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commended the DRDO, the armed forces, and the industry for the successful development of ABHYAS, praising the collaborative efforts that led to this achievement. Secretary of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO, Samir V Kamat, also extended his congratulations, emphasizing the system’s potential for cost-effectiveness and significant export opportunities.
(With inputs from agencies)
