How JDAM-ER Will Enhance Tejas Mk1A's Smart Strike Capabilities as it Already Boast Griffin LGBs and AASM Hammer

The Indian Air Force's (IAF) Tejas Mk1A light combat aircraft has received a significant upgrade with the integration of the Joint Direct Attack Munition-Extended Range (JDAM-ER).

This addition, previously reported by defence.in, marks a major leap forward in the Tejas program, solidifying its position as a potent multirole fighter. The JDAM-ER kits, ordered in 2022, have begun arriving from the United States, further diversifying the Tejas Mk1A's already impressive arsenal of advanced weaponry.

Developed by Boeing, JDAM-ER is a guidance kit that transforms unguided bombs into precision-guided munitions using GPS technology. The "extended range" variant significantly boosts the weapon's reach to over 70 km, allowing the Tejas Mk1A to engage targets from a safe distance, minimizing exposure to enemy air defenses. This capability is crucial in modern warfare, where long-range precision strikes are essential for mission success.

The integration of JDAM-ER not only enhances the IAF's strike capabilities but also underscores the growing defence cooperation between India and the United States. This latest addition complements the Tejas Mk1A's existing suite of smart munitions sourced from various global partners, showcasing its versatility and interoperability.

A Diverse Arsenal​

The Tejas Mk1A already boasts an impressive array of precision-guided munitions:

• Griffin LGB (Israel): Developed by Elbit Systems, the Griffin Laser-Guided Bomb provides pinpoint accuracy against designated targets. Its lightweight design allows the Tejas Mk1A to carry multiple bombs, increasing its strike capacity per sortie.
• AASM Hammer (France): Safran Electronics & Defense's Armement Air-Sol Modulaire (AASM) Hammer is an all-weather precision-guided munition with a range of 60 km. Its modular design allows for GPS, laser, and infrared guidance, offering flexibility in targeting both fixed and moving targets.

This diverse weapons suite, sourced from Israel, France, and now the United States, highlights India's strategic defence partnerships and its commitment to equipping the Tejas Mk1A with the best available technology.

Expanding the Tejas Mk1A's Role​

The integration of advanced weapons like JDAM-ER significantly expands the Tejas Mk1A's operational envelope. Initially conceived as a lightweight multirole fighter, the Tejas Mk1A is now capable of performing a wider range of missions, from deep strikes to close air support. This evolution is a crucial step for the IAF as the Tejas Mk1A is expected to play a key role in replacing aging platforms like the MiG-21.

The Tejas Mk1A program continues to demonstrate its potential as a formidable and versatile combat aircraft. With the addition of JDAM-ER, the IAF gains a significant advantage in its ability to conduct precision strikes in a variety of combat scenarios.

 

[sanket]

JDAM-ER have been bad Time in Ukraine they have been Jammed by Russians, should have been gone for Indigenous rather than Failed one

 

[Radha Ramanan]

There is another JDAM XR later version that has an engine to extend the range beyond `150km , we should aim for for that, LCA can only release the JDAM inside indian territory at 35,000 ft for max range, it will be shot down at that height in side contested airspace. So the actual practical range will be around 20km. when dropped form low level. The mission computer will display the range in real time calculating the speed and height given the target co ordinates. Pak has about 500 older model JDAMS not sure how much is there. They cannot be used against india as per the contract , but we know pak.

 

[Adi]

The ukro-Russian conflict has clearly proven the superiority of Russian missile and Radio electronic warfare against over-hyped and overpriced western technology.

 

[vamkris]

Integrate Rudram 3 also. What about engine? GE 404 or GE414 or Safran 110KN?

 

[R. Singh]

Add one more US origin missile the AIM series of BVRAAMs to make Tejas-1A a deadly fighter jet in air defence role !

 

[Hammer]

JDAM-ER have been bad Time in Ukraine they have been Jammed by Russians, should have been gone for Indigenous rather than Failed one

Should have gone for which indigenous . 18 out of 20 atgm license produced malfunctions. Plz don't keep countries security at stake just in the name of indigenous. The best thing DPSU should do is to bring some professionalism

 

[Hammer]

Integrate Rudram 3 also. What about engine? GE 404 or GE414 or Safran 110KN?

Where is RUDRAM 1, 2 and 3. It's decade away from being operational. Only guaranteed thing is NEW NAME for projects

 

[sishir]

All is well but with the news that PAK will get Chinese made 31 aircraft by 2030 is a greater worry for us. We do not have any suitable aircraft to challenge these sophisticated new generation. If we also need to counter it at the same time line Either go for US 35 or Russian 57 aircraft. However this is a big decision both for our armed forces and politically.

 

[SivaBalan Kumaravel]

US has a history of disabling GPD coverage during crucial times. Without GPS these kits will not work. Not sure why we are relying on smart American Weapons.