Four Flight Trials of 'ABHYAS' Conducted by DRDO

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted four flight trials of the high-speed expendable aerial target named 'ABHYAS' from the integrated test range located at Chandipur, Odisha. 

• These trials were carried out between January 30 and February 2, and achieved four different mission objectives using a revised robust configuration. 
• Additionally, the single booster, which was designed by the Advanced Systems Laboratory in Hyderabad, provided reduced launch acceleration.

ABHYAS 

Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) designed & developed the ABHYAS.

• The objectives are:  
  • the safe release of the booster, 
  • launcher clearance and 
  • attaining the required end-of-launch velocity.
• The flight trials validated various parameters such as endurance, speed, manoeuvrability, altitude, and range.
• It serves as a realistic threat scenario for practising weapon systems. 
• It incorporates an indigenous (developed in India) autopilot system developed by the ADE. 
• The aerial target is contained with a radar cross-section, visual and infrared augmentation system for weapon practice.
• The laptop-based ground control system of ABHYAS allows for easy integration of the aircraft and enables pre-flight checks, replay after the flight, data recording during the flight,  and post-flight analysis. 
• ABHYAS helps in minimum logistics requirements and also is a cost-effective alternative to imported equivalents.
• Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Defence conducted the first trial of ABHYAS.
• Thanks to the assistance of these production agencies, ABHYAS is now fully prepared for production. Additionally, it has the potential for export and can be offered to friendly nations.

About Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO):

• The Defence Research and Development Organisation is the main agency in India for conducting research related to India's defence sector.
• It operates as a unit of the Defence Ministry. Developed in 1958 DRDO merged the existing Technical Development Establishments (TDEs) of the Indian Army, the Directorate of Technical Development and Production (DTDP) and the Defence Science Organisation (DSO). 
• The Main function of DRDO is to design, develop and manufacture weapons and equipment to manufacture advanced sensors . 
• Besides, it conducts research to enhance the capabilities of the security forces like Indian Army, Air Force, Navy, Paramilitary troops.
• Headquarters – Delhi
• Chairman – Dr. Sameer V Kamat