Khagantak-243 Long Range Glide Bomb:
The Indian Air Force (IAF) successfully conducted the test drop of the indigenous Khagantak-243 Long Range Glide Bomb (LRGB), marking a significant advancement in India’s precision strike capabilities and defence self-reliance.
- The weapon has been developed by Nagpur-based start-up JSR Dynamics Pvt Ltd in collaboration with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) under the Development-cum-Production Partner (DcPP) model, highlighting public-private participation in defence manufacturing.
- Khagantak-243 is a 300 kg-class Long Range Glide Bomb equipped with a Mk-81 general-purpose blast fragmentation warhead containing around 125 kg explosive fill. It uses swivel-type glide wings and aft control surfaces to achieve a glide ratio of more than 12.
- The glide bomb can strike targets at a distance of 144–180 km when released from an altitude of around 12 km at Mach 0.8, allowing fighter aircraft to engage targets without entering hostile air defence zones.
- The weapon was initially tested from the Su-30MKI fighter aircraft at Pokhran and is planned for integration with platforms such as the MiG-29K and Mirage-2000.
- Glide Bomb Technology: Unlike cruise missiles, glide bombs do not have an onboard propulsion system. They use aerodynamic lift generated by wings to extend their range after release, making them a cost-effective precision weapon system.
- Khagantak-243 will enhance the IAF’s ability to conduct long-range precision strikes against targets such as enemy runways, hardened shelters and command centres while reducing risks to aircraft.
- The Khagantak series also includes heavier variants such as Khagantak-306 and Khagantak-225, designed for longer-range strike capabilities.
- The induction of indigenous glide bombs will reduce dependence on imported precision munitions and strengthen India’s goal of Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence manufacturing.
