Free Courses Sale ends Soon, Get It Now


LONG RANGE LAND ATTACK CRUISE MISSILE

14th November, 2024

Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.

Context:

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted the maiden flight test of its Long-Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM), the Ministry of Defence.

About Long-Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM):

Launch Capability

Designed to be launched from both mobile ground-based systems and frontline ships using a universal vertical launch module, enhancing operational flexibility.

Maneuverability

It is capable of executing complex maneuvers while flying at different speeds and altitudes, showcasing versatility and precision.

Technology

Equipped with state-of-the-art avionics and software that enhances performance and reliability.

Flight Characteristics

Typically subsonic with terrain-hugging flight paths, making it harder to detect and intercept, providing a strategic advantage in penetrating enemy defenses.

Development

Developed by DRDO's Aeronautical Development Establishment in Bengaluru with collaboration from various DRDO laboratories and Indian industries.

Production Partners

Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) in Hyderabad and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) in Bengaluru served as Development Cum Production Partners.

Approval and Sanction

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved LRLACM as a Mission Mode Project under the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) procedure.

Significance

The successful test is a key milestone in advancing India's defense capabilities, especially in long-range precision strikes.

About Defence Acquisition Council (DAC)

Composition

The DAC, chaired by Defence Minister, approved the procurement of future-ready combat vehicles (FRCVs) for the modernisation of the Army’s tank fleet and air defence fire control radars, among other proposals.

Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCVs)

FRCVs will be futuristic main battle tanks with superior mobility, all-terrain capability, multi-layered protection, precision and lethal firepower, and real-time situational awareness.

Background of DAC

Pursuant to the recommendations made by the group of ministers on reforming the national security system in February 2001, a separate, dedicated structure for defence procurement was set up.

Purpose of DAC

The DAC was created to streamline defence procurement procedures and reduce timelines to ensure timely delivery of equipment to the armed forces.

Structure of DAC

The Defence Minister is the chairman of DAC. Its members include the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and the chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Role of DAC

The DAC is the highest decision-making body of the Ministry of Defence on procurement.

The main objective is to ensure the expeditious procurement of the approved requirements of the armed forces within the prescribed time frame by optimally utilizing budgetary resources.

Functions of DAC

  • Give in principle approval of a 15 years Long Term Integrated Perspective Plan (LTIPP) for defence forces.
  • Accord acceptance of necessity to acquisition proposals.
  • Categorisation of acquisition proposals relating to ‘Buy’, ‘Buy and Make’, and ‘Make’.
  • Address issues related to single vendor clearance.
  • Take decisions regarding offset provisions for acquisition proposals above Rs 300 crore.
  • Decide on Transfer of Technology under the ‘Buy and Make’ category of acquisition proposals.
  • Field trial evaluation.

Source:

ECONOMICTIMES

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.Which of the following statements are correct regarding the Long-Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM)?

  1. It is designed to target land-based strategic targets from a long-distance using precision guidance systems.
  2. The missile is capable of being launched from both air and ground platforms.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: c

Explanation:

Both statements are correct.

LRLACM is a precision-guided missile designed to target land-based strategic and tactical targets at long ranges. It can be launched from both air and ground platforms, enhancing its versatility.

The missile has been developed by DRDO under the Make in India initiative, aligning with India's defense modernization efforts.