Context:

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted the release trials of Long-Range Glide Bomb (LRGB) ‘Gaurav’ from the Su-30 MKI aircraft. The trials successfully demonstrated range close to 100 kms with pin-point accuracy.

What are Long-Range Glide Bombs?

A glide bomb is a precision-guided munition that, once released from an aircraft, glides toward its target using lift-generating surfaces (like wings) and internal guidance systems such as GPS or inertial navigation. When designed with extended range, these bombs allow aircraft to strike targets from distances of 60–150 km or more, minimizing exposure to enemy air defense systems.

Key Features

1.      Standoff Range: Allows strikes from safe distances.

2.      Precision Guidance: GPS, INS, electro-optical or laser guidance ensures high accuracy.

3.      Cost-Effective: Cheaper than cruise missiles, enabling broader deployment.

4.      Stealth and Survivability: Small radar cross-section and high-speed delivery make interception difficult.

5.      Modular Warheads: Configurable for high-explosive, penetration, or cluster roles.

Glide Bombs of India

DRDO has developed two glide bombs - Gaurav and Gautham. While the winged version of LRGB Gaurav weighs around 1,000 kg, the non-winged Gautham weighs 550 kg.

The LRGB has been developed indigenously by the DRDO's Research Centre Imarat and Armament Research and Development Establishment. The development-cum-production partners are Adani Defence Systems and Technologies, Bharat Forge and various MSMEs.

Strategic Importance

1.      Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD): Glide bombs can neutralize radars or missile batteries before manned aircraft move in.

2.      Low-Collateral Urban Warfare: Their precision makes them ideal for operations in dense civilian areas.

3.      Drone & Multi-Platform Compatibility: Increasingly, these weapons are being adapted for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), enhancing strike capability without risking pilots.

4.      Force Multiplication: One aircraft can strike multiple distant targets in a single sortie, improving efficiency.

Strategic Advantages

1.  Standoff Strikes: Glide bombs allow an aircraft to hit targets without crossing into hostile airspace, reducing risk from surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems like the S-400 or Patriot.

2.  High Precision: Using satellite and inertial guidance, some systems have a circular error probable (CEP) of just 1–3 meters, enabling them to strike small or fortified targets with minimal damage nearby.

3.  Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to cruise missiles (which can cost over $1 million), glide bombs are relatively cheap, making them suitable for mass deployment.

4.  Platform Versatility: They can be launched from fighter jets, bombers, or UAVs, and are increasingly modular, with countries developing "smart bomb kits" to convert old munitions.

Conclusion

Long-range glide bombs are redefining modern warfare by offering a unique combination of range, precision, affordability, and safety. As India expands its capabilities through indigenous R&D and strategic collaboration, mastering this technology is critical for its defense preparedness and regional strategic balance.