New Delhi, Feb 6:
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) carried out four flight trials of the High-speed Expendable Aerial Target (HEAT) ABHYAS.
The trials were conducted with four different mission objectives in a revised robust configuration, using a single booster designed by Advanced Systems Laboratory, Hyderabad, to provide reduced launch acceleration.
The objectives like safe release of the booster, launcher clearance and attaining the required end-of-launch velocity were achieved.
During the flight trials, various parameters like required endurance, speed, maneuverability, altitude and range were successfully validated.
The trials were carried out from the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, in Odisha, from January 30 to February 2, an official statement said here on Monday.
Designed by DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), ABHYAS offers a realistic threat scenario for the practice of weapon systems. It is designed for autonomous flying with the help of an autopilot indigenously made by the ADE.
It has a radar cross-section and a visual and infrared augmentation system required for weapon practice. It has a laptop-based ground control system with which the aircraft can be integrated, and pre-flight checks, data recording during the flight, replays after the flight, and post-flight analysis can be carried out.
ABHYAS requires minimum logistics and is cost-effective compared to imported equivalents.
The systems tested recently were realized through production agencies Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Defense. With identified production agencies, ABHYAS is ready for production. The system has export potential and can be offered to friendly countries.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also congratulated the DRDO, the Armed Forces, and the industry for the successful flight trial of ABHYAS. The development of this system will meet the requirements of aerial targets for the Armed Forces, he said.
