Why in News?
DRDO and the Indian Air Force (IAF) successfully conducted the maiden flight trial of the TARA Glide Weapon 2026.
- The system is Indiaโs first indigenous glide weapon capable of converting conventional unguided warheads into precision-guided weapons. The trial marks a major advancement in Indiaโs indigenous defence technology and tactical strike capability.
Key Facts about TARA
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Form | Tactical Advanced Range Augmentation (TARA) |
| Developed By | DRDO |
| User Agency | Indian Air Force (IAF) |
| Type | Indigenous glide weapon system |
| Purpose | Converts unguided warheads into precision-guided weapons |
| Maximum Range | 80 km |
| Launch Altitude | 10 to 45,000 feet |
| Weight Variants | 250 kg, 450 kg, 500 kg |
| Target Type | Ground-based targets |
Significance of TARA Glide Weapon
The TARA Glide Weapon 2026 strengthens Indiaโs indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The system enhances stand-off strike capability by enabling aircraft to hit targets from safer distances. It also reduces dependence on imported precision-guided munitions.
Quick Revision Points-TARA
- TARA stands for Tactical Advanced Range Augmentation
- Developed by DRDO
- Tested jointly with the Indian Air Force
- Indiaโs first indigenous glide weapon system
- Maximum operational range of 80 km
- Launch altitude between 10 and 45,000 feet
- Available in 250 kg, 450 kg, and 500 kg variants
- Converts unguided warheads into precision-guided weapons
Practice MCQs
Q1. TARA glide weapon system was developed by:
a) ISRO
b) HAL
c) DRDO
d) BEL
Answer: (c) โ DRDO developed the TARA glide weapon system.
Q2. The primary purpose of TARA is to:
a) Intercept ballistic missiles
b) Convert unguided warheads into precision-guided weapons
c) Launch satellites
d) Detect submarines
Answer: (b) โ TARA converts conventional unguided warheads into precision-guided weapons.
Q3. What is the maximum range of the TARA glide weapon system?
a) 40 km
b) 60 km
c) 80 km
d) 120 km
Answer: (c) โ TARA can strike targets up to 80 km away.
Q4. TARA glide weapon can be launched from a maximum altitude of:
a) 20,000 feet
b) 30,000 feet
c) 40,000 feet
d) 45,000 feet
Answer: (d) โ The system supports launch altitudes up to 45,000 feet.
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