SOURCE: AFI
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to equip its upgraded Tejas Mk1A light combat aircraft with the highly potent HAMMER (Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range) missile system. This integration, currently underway by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), will significantly enhance the Tejas’ ground attack capabilities.
India placed an order for an unspecified number of HAMMER kits from French manufacturer Safran in 2021. These kits are specifically designed for the Mk1A variant of the Tejas LCA. The HAMMER system boasts a modular design, allowing it to be equipped with various guidance units and carry different types of ordnance. This versatility enables the Tejas Mk1A to engage a wide range of ground targets, including fortified bunkers, with pinpoint accuracy from extended stand-off ranges of up to 70 kilometers.
The integration of HAMMER missiles comes at a crucial time, coinciding with the planned operationalization of the first Tejas Mk1A squadron later this year. This advanced weapon system will provide the Mk1A with a significant edge in modern air combat scenarios.
The IAF’s enthusiasm for the HAMMER is further reflected in its earlier purchase of approximately 300 HAMMER kits for its fleet of Dassault Rafale fighters. This integration on both the Rafale and Tejas Mk1A showcases the IAF’s commitment to equipping its fighter jets with cutting-edge air-to-ground weaponry.