<h4>Introduction to ABHYAS</h4><p>The <strong>High Speed Expendable Aerial Target (HEAT)</strong> known as <strong>‘ABHYAS’</strong> is a significant indigenous development in India's defence capabilities. It has been developed by the <strong>Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)</strong>.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>ABHYAS</strong> serves as a crucial system for testing and validating various weapon platforms and air defence systems.</p></div><h4>Developmental Trials and Location</h4><p>The <strong>DRDO</strong> has successfully completed the developmental trials of <strong>ABHYAS</strong>. These trials are a critical step in ensuring the system's operational readiness and reliability.</p><p>The trials were conducted at the <strong>Integrated Test Range (ITR)</strong>, located in <strong>Odisha</strong>. This location is a primary facility for testing India's missile and aerial systems.</p><h4>Purpose and Functionality</h4><p><strong>ABHYAS</strong> is specifically designed to provide a <strong>realistic threat scenario</strong> for the armed forces. This allows for effective practice in the use of various <strong>weapon systems</strong>.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p>Its primary role is to simulate enemy aircraft or missiles, enabling live-fire exercises and validation of missile interception capabilities.</p></div><h4>Key Features and Systems</h4><p>The <strong>ABHYAS HEAT</strong> is engineered for <strong>autonomous flight</strong>, leveraging an advanced <strong>autopilot</strong> system. This ensures stable and predictable flight paths during missions.</p><p>It is equipped with a suite of sophisticated systems to enhance its utility and realism:</p><ul><li><strong>RCS (Radar Cross Section) augmentation</strong>: To mimic the radar signature of various aircraft.</li><li><strong>Visual augmentation</strong>: For visual tracking and identification exercises.</li><li><strong>IR (Infrared) augmentation</strong>: To simulate the heat signature of aircraft or missiles.</li><li>A <strong>laptop-based ground control system</strong>: For mission planning and real-time control.</li><li>Capabilities for <strong>pre-flight checks</strong> and <strong>data recording</strong> for comprehensive post-flight analysis.</li></ul><div class='exam-tip-box'><p><strong>UPSC Insight:</strong> Understanding systems like <strong>ABHYAS</strong> is important for <strong>GS Paper 3 (Science and Technology – Defence)</strong>, highlighting India's progress in indigenous defence technology and self-reliance.</p></div>