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.[1] With these latest trials, ABHYAS has now successfully completed a total of 10 developmental trials, demonstrating the reliability of the system.
The trials were carried out with enhanced Radar Cross Section, Visual and Infrared augmentation systems. During the trials, various mission objectives were successfully validated, including the safe release of the booster, launcher clearance, and endurance performance.[1] Notably, two launches were conducted back-to-back within a span of 30 minutes, showcasing the ease of operation and minimum logistics required.[1]
ABHYAS has been designed by DRDO's Aeronautical Development Establishment in Bengaluru and developed through production agencies Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and Larsen & Toubro.[1][2][3] This indigenous system is designed for autonomous flying using an autopilot and a laptop-based Ground Control System for aircraft integration, pre-flight checks, and autonomous flight.[1][2][3] It also has the capability to record data during flight for post-flight analysis.[1]
The booster for ABHYAS has been designed by the Advanced Systems Laboratory, while the navigation system has been developed by the Research Centre Imarat.[1] With the identified production agencies, ABHYAS is now ready for production and has the potential for export to friendly countries.[1][2][3]
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has commended DRDO, the Armed Forces, and the industry for the successful developmental trials of ABHYAS, stating that the trials are a noteworthy testimony of the synergy between scientists and industry.[1] The Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, Dr. Samir V. Kamat, has also congratulated the teams involved and highlighted the system's cost-effectiveness and export potential.[1]
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