Rediff.com« Back to articlePrint this article

Pilot-less aircraft Lakshya-1 test flown successfully

August 23, 2012 15:53 IST

India's indigenously developed, micro-light pilot-less target aircraft 'Lakshya-1' was successfully test flown from the Integrated Test Range at Chandipur in Odisha on Thursday.

Lakshya-1, fitted with an advanced digitally controlled engine, was test flown from the launch complex-2 of the ITR at about 12.15 pm successfully, defence sources said.

The test was carried out to check the validity of its engine and duration enhancement, they said, adding that usually the flight duration of the six-foot-long micro light aircraft is 30 to 35 minutes.

Lakshya-1, a sub-sonic, re-usable aerial target system, is remote controlled from the ground and designed to impart training to both air borne and air defence pilots.

It is launched by a solid propellant rocket motor, and sustained by a turbojet engine in flight.

The PTA has been developed by India's aeronautic development establishment, Bangalore to perform discreet aerial reconnaissance of battle field and target acquisition.

Lakshya has been inducted into the Indian Air Force since 2000.

© Copyright 2024 PTI. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of PTI content, including by framing or similar means, is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent.