Lakshya test flown successfully

Lakshya has been successfully test flown from the integrated test range (ITR) at Chandipur, about 15 km from Balasore.

Lakshya, India's indigenously developed micro-light and pilotless target aircraft (PTA), was successfully test flown on Wednesday from the integrated test range (ITR) at Chandipur, about 15 km from Balasore.

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"Lakshya fitted with an advanced digitally controlled engine was test flown at about 12 noon successfully and it was carried out to check the validity of its engine and duration enhancement," defence sources said here.

Usually, the flight duration of the six feet long micro light aircraft is 30 to 35 minutes.

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

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

Lakshya was introduced in the Indian Air Force (IAF) in 2000.