India has moved a step closer to enhancing its indigenous missile arsenal with the successful test of the Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM).
Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the missile was tested from the Odisha coast and met all mission objectives during the trial.
Successful test conducted off Odisha coast
The flight test was carried out from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha on June 15. According to the Ministry of Defence, all planned objectives of the trial were achieved successfully. Data collected by tracking systems deployed by the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, confirmed the missile's performance during the flight, as per News18 reports.
Officials described the test as an important milestone in India's efforts to develop advanced indigenous missile systems capable of conducting precision strikes over long distances.
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Why the missile is being compared to Tomahawk
The LRLACM has drawn comparisons with the US-made Tomahawk cruise missile because of its long-range land-attack role and ability to strike targets with precision deep inside enemy territory. Unlike ballistic missiles, which follow a predictable trajectory, cruise missiles fly at low altitudes and can dodge around obstacles, making them harder to detect and intercept, according to News18.
Reports indicate that the missile is capable of striking targets at distances exceeding 1,000 km and is designed for high-precision attacks against strategic land-based targets.
Indigenous technology at the core
The missile has been developed entirely within India, with key subsystems designed by various DRDO laboratories and industry partners. The Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), Bengaluru, serves as the nodal laboratory for the project.
The system uses advanced navigation and terrain-following technologies that allow it to maintain a low radar signature while accurately engaging targets. Its successful development places India among a select group of countries possessing indigenous long-range cruise missile technology.
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Boost to India's defence capabilities
The successful test comes days after DRDO conducted a series of other missile and defence system trials, highlighting ongoing efforts to strengthen the country's defence preparedness. Officials said the achievement validates critical technologies and demonstrates India's growing long-range precision strike capability.
The LRLACM test is being viewed as another significant step towards enhancing self-reliance in defence manufacturing and expanding India's strategic deterrence capabilities.
