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SOURCE: AFI

India has solidified its place among the world’s leading defense innovators with the successful development of the Gaurav, a 1,000 kg-class Long-Range Glide Bomb (LRGB) that stands out as one of the few purpose-built heavy glide bombs globally. Designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Gaurav combines advanced GPS-guided precision with an impressive 100-kilometer range, setting a new benchmark for India’s indigenous defense capabilities. Conducted between April 8-10, 2025, its recent trials from a Su-30 MKI fighter jet demonstrated pinpoint accuracy, marking a significant leap for the Indian Air Force (IAF).

Unlike most glide bombs, which typically fall into the 500 kg category due to the aerodynamic and structural complexities of heavier designs, Gaurav’s 1,000 kg payload places it in an elite class. Its closest counterparts include the U.S.-made Joint Direct Attack Munition-Extended Range (JDAM-ER) and Israel’s SPICE-2000, both renowned for their precision and extended reach. However, Gaurav’s fully indigenous development, involving DRDO’s Research Centre Imarat, Armament Research and Development Establishment, and industry partners like Adani Defence and Bharat Forge, underscores India’s growing self-reliance in cutting-edge military technology.

Launched from high altitudes, typically above 40,000 feet, Gaurav leverages a hybrid navigation system combining GPS and Inertial Navigation System (INS) to ensure accuracy even in contested environments where signals may be jammed. This dual-guidance capability allows the bomb to glide over 100 kilometers, enabling IAF jets to strike high-value targets—such as bunkers, airfields, or fortified structures—without entering enemy air defense zones. Its versatility is further enhanced by multiple warhead configurations, including pre-fragmented and penetration-blast options, making it adaptable to diverse mission profiles.

The development of Gaurav addresses a critical gap in India’s standoff weaponry, offering a cost-effective alternative to expensive missiles while matching their lethality. “The trials successfully demonstrated a range close to 100 km with pinpoint accuracy,” the Ministry of Defence stated, highlighting its potential to reshape India’s tactical playbook. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the DRDO, IAF, and industry partners, noting that Gaurav will significantly enhance the armed forces’ operational capabilities.

Globally, the 1,000 kg-class glide bomb category is sparsely populated due to the engineering challenges of balancing range, payload, and precision in a heavier airframe. The JDAM-ER, for instance, extends the range of standard JDAM kits to about 72 kilometers, while the SPICE-2000 boasts a range closer to 100 kilometers with electro-optical and GPS guidance. Gaurav matches or exceeds these systems in range and accuracy, while its domestic production ensures strategic autonomy—a critical factor as India seeks to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.

What sets Gaurav apart is not just its technical prowess but the collaborative spirit behind it. The project saw contributions from private industry and MSMEs, with certifications from the Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification (CEMILAC) ensuring flawless performance. This public-private synergy reflects a broader trend in India’s defense sector, fostering innovation and scalability.

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