DRDO Successfully Conducts Release Trials of Indigenous Long-Range Glide Bomb ‘Gaurav’

In a major boost to India’s defence capabilities, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted release trials of the indigenously developed 1,000 kg class Long-Range Glide Bomb (LRGB) ‘Gaurav’. The trials were carried out from a Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft between April 8 and 10.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Defence, the bomb was tested in multiple configurations from different stations of the aircraft, targeting a land-based location on an island. The trials demonstrated a striking range of nearly 100 km with exceptional precision.

Developed jointly by DRDO’s Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), and Integrated Test Range (ITR) Chandipur, the LRGB ‘Gaurav’ stands as a symbol of India’s growing self-reliance in defence technologies. The trials were closely monitored by senior officials from DRDO and the Indian Air Force (IAF).

The successful trials also highlight the collaborative efforts between DRDO and its industry partners including Adani Defence Systems & Technologies, Bharat Forge, and several MSMEs, under the Development-cum-Production Partner framework. The Centre for Military Airworthiness & Certification and Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance played key roles in certification and quality assurance processes.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded DRDO, IAF, and the industry partners for the successful development of ‘Gaurav’. “The development of LRGB will significantly enhance the operational capabilities of our Armed Forces,” he said.

Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO, Dr. Samir V Kamat also congratulated the DRDO team on the successful trials, terming it a milestone in India’s defence preparedness.

With these successful trials, the path is now clear for the induction of the ‘Gaurav’ Long-Range Glide Bomb into the Indian Air Force’s arsenal, marking a major step forward in strengthening India’s air-to-surface warfare capabilities.