More Powerful Than BrahMos, This New Indian Missile Can Destroy Enemy Without Crossing Borders

Last Updated:August 14, 2025, 13:47 IST

DRDO is upgrading its Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon that will feature advanced guidance systems and integrate with Sukhoi Su-30MKI and Rafale jets

The Sukhoi-30MKI will serve as the primary launch platform, capable of carrying multiple SAAWs through the Indigenous Smart Quad Rack System. (File Pic)

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is working on a jet-powered upgrade of its indigenous Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon (SAAW), transforming it from a precision glide bomb into a mini air-launched cruise missile with capabilities that, in some respects, surpass the BrahMos.

The project marks a significant leap in India’s advanced precision strike technology and aligns closely with the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative. The new SAAW variant will be equipped with a compact turbojet engine and integrated fuel tank, allowing it to operate under self-propulsion instead of relying solely on gravity-based glide. This upgrade will push its strike range beyond 200 km, double the current 100 km, enabling the Indian Air Force (IAF) to hit high-value targets without crossing into the enemy’s air defence zone.

At approximately 2.5 metres in length, the upgraded SAAW will be longer than the existing 1.8-metre model, accommodating the new propulsion system while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency. It will be initially integrated with the Sukhoi Su-30MKI, with Rafale jets also slated to carry it in the future.

Fire-and-forget precision

The upgraded weapon will feature an advanced electro-optical (EO) seeker paired with imaging infrared (IIR) guidance, giving it ‘fire-and-forget’ capability. Once launched, it will independently track and strike its target with a circular error probability (CEP) of under three metres. The IIR system, previously deployed in DRDO’s Nag anti-tank missile and air defence systems, will ensure accuracy in day or night operations, adverse weather, and against mobile targets, outperforming conventional satellite or inertial navigation.

Multi-platform strike potential

The Sukhoi-30MKI will serve as the primary launch platform, capable of carrying multiple SAAWs through the Indigenous Smart Quad Rack System. This will allow simultaneous strikes on airfields, runways, radar installations, and other strategic assets. With a range exceeding 200 km, the launching aircraft will remain beyond the reach of most enemy surface-to-air missile systems, enhancing pilot and aircraft safety.

Strategic significance

Once deployed, the jet-powered SAAW could cripple an adversary’s air operations at the outset of a conflict, potentially altering the outcome of any future air campaign. It also strengthens India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing while reducing dependence on imported weapons systems.

Testing and induction

Trials for the new variant are scheduled to conclude by the end of 2025, evaluating its performance across range, accuracy, and all-weather conditions. Upon successful completion, production will begin, placing India among the limited number of nations with homegrown advanced air-launched cruise missile technology and further cementing DRDO’s standing as a leading global defence innovator.

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August 14, 2025, 13:47 IST

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