India’s 140-km Strike Weapon Clears Key IAF Trial
What Happened
The Indian Air Force successfully conducted a drop trial of the indigenously developed Khagantak-243 long-range glide bomb. The 300-kg-class precision-guided weapon reportedly has a range of over 140 km and can strike targets from a stand-off distance without the launch aircraft flying directly over them. The IAF said the trial met all mission objectives.
Key Takeaways
The successful test strengthens India’s indigenous precision-strike capabilities and supports the Atmanirbhar Bharat defence push. With its long stand-off range and compatibility with platforms such as the Su-30MKI, the Khagantak-243 could significantly enhance the IAF’s ability to engage high-value targets while keeping aircraft farther from hostile air defences.