Article Posted on : - Jan 31, 2012

A file photo.

BALASORE, ODISHA (PTI): India's indigenously developed micro-light and pilot-less target aircraft (PTA) -- Lakshya-1 -- was successfully test flown from the Integrated Test Range at Chandipur near here on Tuesday.

The PTA -- fitted with an advanced digitally controlled engine -- was successfully test flown at about 11.40 am to check the validity of its engine and duration enhancement, defence sources said here.

"It is a routine trial by the users," the sources said.

Lakshya is a sub-sonic, reusable 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 aircraft is usually 30-35 minutes.

The aircraft has been developed by India's Aeronautic Development Establishment (ADE), Bangalore to perform discreet aerial reconnaissance in battlefield and target acquisition.

Lakshya has been inducted in to the Indian Air Force (IAF) since 2000.

The trial was significant as Lakshya-II PTA was successfully flight tested from the same ground on January 25 and 27.