Khagantak-243: India Tests Private-Sector Glide Bomb Successfully
India has successfully tested Khagantak-243, a new glide bomb developed by the private sector. This marks a significant step in the country's defence manufacturing capabilities.
Source: GNews DRDO WeaponsIndia recently conducted a successful test of Khagantak-243, a new glide bomb. This weapon was developed by a private sector company, marking a notable achievement in India's indigenous defence production. The test demonstrated the bomb's ability to glide accurately towards its target after being released from an aircraft. Glide bombs are unpowered precision-guided munitions that use aerodynamic forces to travel a significant distance from the launch point, increasing the safety of the launching aircraft. The development of Khagantak-243 highlights the growing role of private industries in contributing to India's defence technology and reducing reliance on foreign imports. This successful test is expected to boost confidence in domestic defence manufacturing and encourage further private sector participation in advanced weapon systems development.
This news is important for competitive exams, especially for topics related to Defence Technology and Make in India initiatives. Aspirants should note the increasing involvement of the private sector in defence, which is a key aspect of UPSC GS Paper III (Science and Technology, Defence) and SSC General Awareness. It signifies India's push towards self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) in critical defence capabilities and the modernization of its armed forces.
- Khagantak-243 is a new glide bomb developed in India.
- A private sector company developed the Khagantak-243.
- The bomb was successfully tested, demonstrating its precision gliding capability.
- Glide bombs are unpowered, precision-guided munitions.
- This development supports India's 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' defence initiatives.
A glide bomb is an unpowered aerial munition designed to travel a significant horizontal distance after being released from an aircraft. It uses aerodynamic surfaces to 'glide' towards its target, allowing the launching aircraft to release it from a safer standoff distance. These bombs are typically precision-guided.
Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, or Self-Reliant India Campaign, is an economic package and vision announced by the Indian government in 2020. It aims to make India self-reliant across various sectors, including defence, by boosting local manufacturing, promoting domestic industries, and reducing dependence on imports.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is the premier agency under the Department of Defence Research and Development, Ministry of Defence, Government of India. Founded in 1958, its headquarters are in New Delhi. DRDO is responsible for the research and development of defence technologies and systems for the Indian military.
UPSC and SSC often ask about new defence technologies, indigenous defence production, and government initiatives like 'Make in India' in the defence sector. Focus on the type of weapon, its developer, and the broader policy context.
Remember 'Khagantak' sounds like 'sky attack' a bomb that attacks from the sky, gliding to its target.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Khagantak-243 and who developed it?
Khagantak-243 is a new glide bomb successfully tested by India. It was developed by a private sector company, showcasing the growing capabilities of indigenous defence manufacturing in the country.
What is the significance of a private sector company developing a glide bomb?
The development of Khagantak-243 by a private sector company signifies India's commitment to the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative in defence. It promotes self-reliance, reduces import dependence, and encourages innovation within the domestic defence industry.
How do glide bombs work and what are their advantages?
Glide bombs are unpowered, precision-guided munitions that use aerodynamic lift to travel long distances after release. Their main advantage is allowing the launching aircraft to deploy them from a safe standoff range, away from enemy air defences, while still achieving high accuracy on targets.