SAAW

Summary

CategoryGlide Bomb
Sub-typeAnti-airfield weapon
Origin country 🇮🇳 India
ManufacturerDRDO
StatusIn service
Year of service2021

Technical specifications

WarheadHigh explosive penetrator
GuidanceINS/GPS and electro-optical/IIR seeker
Weight125 kg (276 lb)
CEP3 m
Range 100 km (62 mi)

Operators

🇮🇳 India

Description

The SAAW project received approval in 2013, with the first successful test occurring in May 2016. The Indian government approved the system for procurement by the Navy and Air Force in September 2020, and it was transferred to the Air Force for production in December 2021.

This precision-guided anti-airfield weapon is designed to engage ground targets, including runways, bunkers, aircraft hangars, and reinforced structures. It utilizes a high explosive penetrator warhead to achieve deep penetration. Guidance is provided via INS/GPS satellite navigation, with a later variant incorporating an electro-optical/IIR seeker. The system provides standoff engagement capability. Compatible launch platforms include the Jaguar and Su-30MKI; the Su-30MKI utilizes a four-round Smart Quad Rack system to carry the munitions. Integration is planned for the Dassault Rafale and HAL Tejas MK1A.

The weapon is operated by the Indian Air Force and Navy. It saw initial combat use during the 2025 India-Pakistan confrontation in Operation Sindoor, where it was employed against airfields.

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