HAL Successfully Integrates & Tests AASM Hammer From Tejas

The AASM Hammer air-to-surface munition from the Tejas light combat aircraft has been successfully integrated and tested by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). The AASM Hammer is a precision-guided munition created by Safran Electronics & Defense, a French corporation.

In 2021, the Indian Air Force (IAF) will order the Hammer for HAL Tejas. The Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM), of which the IAF just ordered 250, and the DRDO Smart Anti Airfield Weapon will be tested shortly after Hammer (SAAW).

On March 29, HAL told Overt Defense at DSA 2022 in Malaysia that the Hammer would be tested within a few days. The ‘scheduled activity of AASM Hammer drop was successful,’ according to HAL sources.

Tejas can now strike hardened targets from a distance of over 70 kilometres thanks to the AASM Hammer. Tejas will be able to carry up to five Hammers on his back. This weapon is already installed on IAF Rafales.

HAL has almost completed the integration of Tejas’ planned armaments. The certification of each munition, on the other hand, is projected to take longer. This year, both JDAM and SAAW will be put to the test. Meanwhile, the DRDO’s Astra air-to-air missile will be tested in the next months. Officials from HAL expressed confidence in reaching all deadlines.

The AASM Hammer is available in three different guidance kits and can be used with a variety of common bomb bodies (125, 250, 500 and 1000 kg).

The Tejas will be an exceptionally adaptable platform for attack missions because to the 1000lb JDAM variant, which can reach targets at distances of over 70km, as well as the 125kg SAAW, which has a range of over 90km. The Indian Air Force’s Tejas fleet, which will eventually number 123 after an order for 83 Mk1A fighters was placed in 2021, can also use a variety of shorter-range precision guided bombs.

HAL is now in talks with Malaysia about exporting Tejas, while government-to-government talks with the Philippines and Argentina are ongoing. Despite having a large arsenal of integrated weapons, HAL is willing to incorporate any weapon that clients request.

The BrahMos NG, a smaller and lighter version of the BrahMos cruise missile in development, is one of them. Other aircraft components can also be altered to meet the needs of the user.