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Key Points

The Indian Air Force is set to upgrade its fighter fleet with the advanced SAAW smart bombs, developed by DRDO. These precision-guided weapons can hit targets 100 km away, similar to those used in the Balakot strikes. The proposal comes as India focuses on long-range stand-off weapon systems. DRDO is also fast-tracking emergency procurement to bolster defence readiness.

Key Points: IAF to Equip Fighter Jets with Indigenous SAAW Smart Bombs

  • IAF to deploy satellite-guided SAAW on fighter jets
  • 100 km strike range with pinpoint accuracy
  • Similar to Balakot air strike weapons
  • DRDO accelerates emergency procurement for future conflicts
2 min read

Indian Air Force to get advanced indigenous smart anti-airfield weapon for fighter jet fleet

Indian Air Force advances with DRDO-developed SAAW smart bombs for Su-30 MKI and other jets, enhancing precision strike capabilities.

"SAAW is capable of engaging ground targets with high precision up to a range of 100 kms. – Defence Sources"

New Delhi, June 17

In what would be a big success for indigenous weapon systems, the Indian Air Force is looking to acquire an advanced version of the Indigenous Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon, which would be fitted on almost the entire fighter jet fleet of the force, including the Su-30 MKI.

A proposal from the Indian Air Force to get the satellite-guided version of the SAAW air launched glide bomb is expected to be discussed by the Defence Ministry soon. This would be able to hit targets with accuracy at 100 Km strike range, defence sources told ANI.

SAAW, an indigenously designed and developed 120 kg class smart weapon developed by DRDO, is capable of engaging ground targets with high precision up to a range of 100 kms. The lightweight high precision guided bomb is one of the world-class weapons systems.

SAAW is indigenously designed and developed by DRDO's Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad has been developed with an aim of engaging ground enemy airfield assets such as radars, bunkers, taxi tracks, and runways etc.

The stand off weapon is similar to the stand off weapons used in the Balakot air strikes on targets in Pakistan.

The proposal is coming up for discussion at a time when the Indian forces are looking for long range stand off weapon systems and have tasted success in a big way during Operation Sindoor against Pakistani terror and military targets.

The SAAW is one of the successful projects carried out by the DRDO.

The DRDO has also offered the SAAW missiles to the defence forces under the emergency procurement process to equip the forces rapidly for future conflicts.

The Indian Air Force is looking to equip itself with multiple long-range weapon systems, including missiles and other systems.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
This is fantastic news! 🇮🇳 Atmanirbhar Bharat in action. We need more such indigenous weapons to reduce dependence on foreign imports. DRDO is doing great work - hope they deliver on time without cost overruns. Jai Hind!
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Priya M.
While I appreciate the development, I hope we're also investing equally in cyber defense systems. Modern warfare isn't just about physical weapons anymore. A balanced approach is needed for national security.
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Arjun S.
100 km range with precision is impressive! This will give us strategic advantage against both western and northern neighbors. Hope the production scales up quickly to equip all squadrons. Our pilots deserve the best tools to protect our skies.
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Sunita R.
Good development but I worry about escalation dynamics with Pakistan. We need strong weapons but also strong diplomacy. Hope our leaders use these capabilities responsibly while maintaining peace in the region.
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Vikram J.
After Balakot, such indigenous precision weapons are game changers! This will make any adversary think twice before misadventures. Proud of our scientists and armed forces working together for national security. 💪
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Neha P.
The article mentions this is similar to weapons used in Balakot strikes. I hope the media exercises restraint in revealing such operational details. Sometimes strategic ambiguity is better than public disclosures.
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Kiran D.
Excellent! Now please ensure proper maintenance and training for these systems. Our defense budget should allocate sufficient funds for spares and simulator training. The best weapon is useless without proper support systems

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