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Successful Release Trials: DRDO successfully conducted release trials of the Long-Range Glide Bomb (LRGB) ‘Gaurav’ from a Su-30 MKI aircraft between April 8-10, 2025.
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Pin-Point Accuracy: The trials demonstrated a range close to 100 km with pin-point accuracy against a land target on an island.
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Indigenous Design: ‘Gaurav’ is a 1,000 kg class glide bomb indigenously designed and developed.
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Glide Bomb Functionality: Unlike traditional bombs, it uses fins/wings for gliding, enabling the launch aircraft to stay out of range of enemy air defenses. It’s unpowered, relying on momentum and aerodynamic surfaces.
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Dual Guidance System: Equipped with a dual guidance system combining Inertial Navigation System (INS) with GPS.
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Partnerships: The project involved collaboration with Indian private sector partners like Adani Defence Systems & Technologies, Bharat Forge, and MSMEs.
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Operational Capability: Launched from high altitudes (over 40,000 feet), it can glide to a range of over 100 kilometers.
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Air Force Induction: The trials are paving the way for the weapon’s induction into the Indian Air Force (IAF).
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Enhancement of Armed Forces Capabilities: The development of LRGB will further enhance the capabilities of the Armed Forces to a great extent.
