Long-Range Glide Bomb ‘Gaurav’

India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) recently completed successful release trials of the Long-Range Glide Bomb (LRGB) named ‘Gaurav’. Conducted from April 8 to 10, 2025, these trials took place using the Sukhoi-30MKI fighter aircraft. This advancement marks step towards enhancing India’s aerial capabilities and its defence strategy.

About ‘Gaurav’

• The Gaurav is a precision-guided glide bomb with a range of 30 km to 150 km.
• It is designed to engage targets beyond the reach of standard anti-aircraft defences.
• Weighing approximately 1,000 kg, it features a wingspan of 3.4 metres and a length of four metres.
• The bomb is engineered for high accuracy, with successful trials demonstrating a range close to 100 km.

Development and Design

The Gaurav was developed by DRDO in collaboration with various partners. Key contributors include the Armament Research and Development Establishment, Research Centre Imarat, and Integrated Test Range. The development process involved multiple configurations and warhead types, ensuring versatility in operational use.

Technical Specifications

The Gaurav glide bomb employs an inertial navigation system enhanced by satellite guidance. This combination allows for precise targeting capabilities. The bomb’s design includes advanced digital control systems, which contribute to its accuracy and reliability during operations.

Collaboration and Production

The production of the Gaurav involved partnerships with companies such as Adani Defence Systems and Technologies and Bharat Forge, along with various Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). This collaboration reflects India’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

Month: Current Affairs - April, 2025

Category: Defence Current Affairs