First flight trial of the Tactical Advanced Range Augmentation (TARA) weapon system

Why in News?

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with the Indian Air Force, successfully conducted the maiden flight trial of the Tactical Advanced Range Augmentation (TARA) weapon system off the coast of Odisha on 7 May 2026.

About TARA

Tactical Advanced Range Augmentation (TARA) is India’s first indigenous glide weapon system designed to convert conventional unguided warheads into precision-guided weapons. The system is intended to enhance the range, accuracy, and lethality of low-cost air-delivered weapons against ground-based targets.

Key Features

TARA is a modular range extension kit that allows existing unguided bombs to be transformed into precision strike weapons. The glide weapon employs state-of-the-art low-cost guidance and navigation systems, making it both effective and economical.

The weapon is designed to:

• Improve strike accuracy
• Increase stand-off attack capability
• Reduce collateral damage
• Enhance operational flexibility of the Indian Air Force

Development

TARA has been designed and developed by Research Centre Imarat along with other DRDO laboratories.

The project has been developed in collaboration with Development-cum-Production Partners (DcPPs) and Indian defence industries, which have already initiated production activities.