The missile is a product of the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), a DRDO laboratory based in Bengaluru
In a significant advancement for India's defence capabilities, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted a successful flight-test of the Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile (ITCM) from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha on April 18, 2024. This test marks a crucial milestone in India’s quest for self-reliance in defence technology, especially in the development of long-range subsonic cruise missiles.

Advanced Technology and Successful Execution

According to information shared by the Ministry of Defence, the missile was launched under optimal conditions and executed a flawless trajectory as monitored by a suite of sophisticated range sensors including Radar, Electro Optical Tracking Systems (EOTS), and Telemetry. These instruments, deployed across various locations, ensured comprehensive coverage of the missile's flight path. Additionally, the missile’s flight was also tracked from the air by a Su-30-Mk-I aircraft of the Indian Air Force, highlighting the coordinated effort between different branches of India's defense infrastructure.

Indigenous Propulsion and Avionics

A standout feature of this test was the successful performance of the indigenous propulsion system, developed by the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) in Bengaluru. This propulsion system is critical for maintaining the missile's low-altitude sea-skimming flight, a key requirement for evading radar detection. The missile's navigation was guided by advanced waypoint navigation technology, ensuring adherence to the predefined flight path.

The ITCM is also equipped with state-of-the-art avionics and software designed to enhance its reliability and performance in varied operational scenarios. These systems were rigorously tested during the flight and functioned as expected, providing valuable data for further refinement.

The missile is a product of the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), a DRDO laboratory based in Bengaluru, with significant contributions from other DRDO labs and Indian industries. 

The test was witnessed by a congregation of senior scientists from various DRDO laboratories and representatives from production partners, who collectively ensured the missile’s design, development, and testing phases were conducted to the highest standards.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and  Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman, DRDO, Samir V Kamat both lauded the successful test. 

Singh emphasized that the development of an indigenous long-range subsonic cruise missile powered by an indigenous propulsion system represents a breakthrough for Indian defense R&D. He highlighted the missile’s potential to significantly enhance India's strategic autonomy and its standing in global defense technology.

The successful flight-test of the ITCM demonstrates DRDO’s capabilities in advanced missile technology and aligns with India’s broader defense strategy to foster innovation and self-reliance. This development is poised to add a new dimension to India’s defense exports and strategic partnerships globally, reinforcing its position as a key player in international defense markets. As the ITCM moves closer to deployment, it represents a significant step forward in India's defense technology prowess and its implications for regional and global stability.