Bhubaneshwar: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully completed six consecutive developmental trials of High Speed Expendable Aerial Target (HEAT) ‘ABHYAS’ with an improved booster configuration from the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, Odisha. With this, ABHYAS has completed 10 developmental trials, demonstrating the system's reliability.

The trials featured enhancements in Radar Cross Section, Visual and Infrared augmentation systems. Various mission objectives, including safe booster release, launcher clearance, and endurance performance, were successfully validated. Two launches were conducted back-to-back within a 30-minute interval, showcasing operational ease with minimal logistics. Representatives from the Services witnessed the flight trials.

ABHYAS, designed by DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Establishment in Bengaluru and developed through Production Agencies - Hindustan Aeronautics Limited & Larsen & Toubro, presents a realistic threat scenario for weapon systems practice. This indigenous system is designed for autonomous flight using autopilot, controlled via a laptop-based Ground Control System for aircraft integration, pre-flight checks, and autonomous operation. It also features data recording capabilities for post-flight analysis. The booster was designed by Advanced Systems Laboratory, and the navigation system by Research Centre Imarat. With identified production agencies, ABHYAS is now ready for production.

Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh complimented DRDO, Armed Forces, and the industry for the successful developmental trials of ABHYAS. He highlighted that these tests are a testament to the synergy between scientists and industry.

Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO, Dr. Samir V Kamat, congratulated the teams involved in the successful flight trials, noting the system's cost-effectiveness and significant export potential. /BI