How Will American JDAM Bombing Kits Enhance IAF’s Capabilities?

According to official sources, LCA Tejas are now being equipped with American Joint Direct Attack Munition precision-guided bombing kits to strengthen the Indian Air Force’s capabilities amid a continuing war with China along the northern borders.

According to ANI, the LCA Tejas will be the first fleet to be equipped with American JDAMs, which are expected to become one of the force’s mainstays in the future. The JDAM kits had recently been purchased by the IAF.

Tejas is a multi-role supersonic fighter with a single engine, is lightweight, and very manoeuvrable. It was designed for the Indian Air Force and Indian Navy by the Aeronautical Development Agency in conjunction with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s (HAL) Aircraft Research and Design Centre.

The Indian Air Force has armed Tejas with the French-made Hammer air-to-ground stand-off missiles as well as the indigenous Astra air-to-air missiles. The IAF is demonstrating its support for the indigenous fighter aircraft programme by adding extra capabilities to the Tejas aircraft.

What role will JDAM play in enhancing IAF capabilities?

The Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) is an all-weather precision-guided munitions guidance kit that converts unguided bombs, or “dumb bombs,” into all-weather precision-guided munitions. Tejas fighter jets will be able to take out enemy bunkers and runways at distances of up to 80 kilometres using JDAM kits.

This will offer the domestic aircraft an advantage over opposing fighter jets because they will be able to destroy targets from afar.

JDAM (joint direct attack munition) how does it work?

Adjustable tail fins, a control computer, an inertial navigation system, and a GPS receiver are all included in the JDAM “tail package.” Because it gets all of its information from satellite signals, which are not hindered by clouds or other impediments, this system operates well even in severe weather.

The GPS receiver on the JDAM analyses signals from GPS satellites in the air to maintain track of its own position. The control mechanism, like that of other smart bombs, adjusts the flying fins to “steer” the bomb in the appropriate direction.