India's 'Tomahawk' Takes Flight: DRDO Successfully Tests Long-Range Precision Missile

Last Updated:June 16, 2026, 12:35 IST

The development came after the failure of India's indigenous "Nirbhay" cruise missile experiment, including incidents in 2013, 2015, 2016, and 2020, during its early flight tests

In yet another milestone, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Monday concluded a successful flight test of Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM) from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Chandipur, Odisha.

According to the Union Ministry of Defence, all the test objectives were successfully achieved, as the missile hit the target at a distance of 1,000 km with all past issues resolved.

“The LRLACM is an indigenously developed missile with all sub-systems developed by various DRDO laboratories and Indian Industry partners. Aeronautical Development Establishment, Bengaluru is the Nodal Laboratory", the ministry said in a statement.

The development came after the failure of India’s indigenous “Nirbhay" cruise missile experiment — including incidents in 2013, 2015, 2016, and 2020 — during its early development and flight tests.

The cruise missile, which can be launched from multiple platforms, serves as an elevation to the failed “Nirbhay" and provides for more range and other technical additions, officials said.

The missile is yet to go two more developmental trials, followed by two more user trials in the next two years before its induction into the Indian Army, they said.

Why It Matters

In the face of growing security threats in the region — especially a year after ‘Operation Sindoor’ and the subsequent conflict with neighbouring Pakistan — the Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM) is designed to strike targets at long ranges with pinpoint precision.

The missile poses a threat to enemy radars as it cannot be detected due to low flying. Carrying a 500 kg warhead, it is capable of destroying its target.

Widely regarded as equivalent to US’s Tomahawk, the missile can maneuver across across multiple altitudes and speeds.

Senior officials from the DRDO, along with user representatives from the Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force, attended the launch event.

Defence Secretary & Secretary, Department of Defence (R&D) and Chairman DRDO Rajesh Kumar Singh monitored activities during the launch.

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