Odisha, 13 August 2024 – The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted the maiden flight test of its Long Range Glide Bomb (LRGB), named ‘GAURAV,’ from a Su-30 MK-I platform belonging to the Indian Air Force (IAF). The test took place off the coast of Odisha.
Capabilities and Development of GAURAV
GAURAV is a 1,000 kg class air-launched glide bomb, designed to strike targets at long distances with high precision. After being released, the bomb utilizes a sophisticated hybrid navigation system that integrates Inertial Navigation System (INS) and GPS data, allowing it to steer accurately towards its target. This advanced glide bomb has been developed indigenously by the Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in Hyderabad.
Flight Test and Precision
During the test, GAURAV demonstrated its precision by successfully hitting a target on Long Wheeler’s Island with pinpoint accuracy. The entire flight, from launch to impact, was meticulously tracked using telemetry and electro-optical systems, which were deployed by the Integrated Test Range along the coastline. The test was overseen by senior scientists from DRDO, with participation from Adani Defence and Bharat Forge, who are the Development cum Production Partners.
Reactions and Significance
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh praised DRDO, the IAF, and industry partners for this successful flight test, describing it as a significant milestone in India’s ongoing efforts to develop indigenous defence technologies that bolster the capabilities of its Armed Forces.
Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, also congratulated the entire DRDO team on the successful test of the LRGB.
This achievement marks an important step forward in enhancing India’s defence capabilities with indigenous technology, further solidifying its self-reliance in the defence sector.
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