Pilot-less target aircraft ‘Lakshya’ successfully test flown

The indigenously developed micro-light and pilot-less target aircraft ‘Lakshya’ was successfully test flown from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur in Balasore district of Odisha today. 'Lakshya’, fitted with an advanced digitally controlled engine was successfully test flown at about 11.40 this morning from launch complex number-III of ITR to check the validity of its engine and duration enhancement.

Lakshya is a sub-sonic, re-usable aerial target system remote controlled from the ground and designed to impart training to both air borne and air defence pilots. The flight duration of the micro light air-craft was 45 minutes today.

The aircraft has been developed by India’s Aeronautic Development Establishment (ADE), Bangalore to perform discreet aerial reconnaissance of battle-field and target acquisition.

Lakshya has already been inducted into the Indian Air Force since 2000. Lakshya-II pilot-less target aircraft was successfully test flown from the same base on the 25th and 27th of this month.