The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to operationalize its indigenous Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon (SAAW), marking a significant advancement in India’s defense capabilities and commitment to self-reliance. This precision-guided munition, weighing 125 kg and developed solely by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is specifically designed to target and destroy enemy airfields, runways, bunkers, and other vital infrastructure from distances of up to 100 kilometers.
One of the key features of the SAAW is its ability to execute standoff strikes, enabling IAF fighter jets to engage high-value targets without penetrating contested airspace. This capability not only enhances pilot safety but also increases the likelihood of mission success during combat operations. The weapon has successfully completed multiple test trials since its debut in 2016, with significant validation carried out from Su-30MKI aircraft at the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha, as early as 2017. Officials from the DRDO have noted that the SAAW exhibits exceptional precision and is resilient against various environmental factors, positioning it as a more reliable option compared to traditional gravity bombs.
The munition features advanced deep penetration capability alongside a high-explosive warhead, ensuring maximum effectiveness against hardened targets. Plans are in place for its integration across several aircraft platforms, including the Dassault Rafale, HAL Tejas Mk1A, Su-30MKI, and Jaguar, significantly elevating the IAF’s strike potential. Originally approved in 2013 with a budget of ₹56.58 crore, the weapon was green-lighted for procurement by both the Air Force and Navy in 2020, highlighting its importance across different military branches.
The introduction of SAAW coincides with the IAF’s ongoing modernization efforts, which aim to expand to 42 squadrons by 2035 while ensuring robust deployment of approximately 450 fighter aircraft along India’s borders with Pakistan and China. Analysts view the SAAW as a crucial force multiplier, offering greater tactical flexibility and reduced vulnerability in higher-risk zones. Furthermore, its development aligns with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, illustrating DRDO’s strengthening capabilities in precision strike systems and next-generation aerospace technologies.
