DefenceSaturday, 9 May 2026·The Hindu
DRDO-IAF TARA glide weapon test: first modular range-extension kit off Odisha coast
DRDO and the IAF conducted the maiden flight-trial of the indigenous TARA glide weapon off Odisha on 7 May 2026.
Key highlights
Direct fact
In May 2026, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out the maiden flight-trial of the indigenous TARA glide weapon off the coast of Odisha, marking India’s first modular range-extension glide kit.
Key specifics
- TARA stands for Tactical Advanced Range Augmentation, the official name of the weapon system.
- The system was designed by Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad, with support from DRDO laboratories and Development-cum-Production Partners (DcPPs).
- It converts standard unguided warheads into precision-guided weapon systems.
- The test was conducted on 7 May 2026 off the coast of Odisha.
- DRDO was established in 1958 under the Ministry of Defence and is headed by Chairman Samir V Kamat.
Exam lens
TNPSC may ask: defence technology match-the-following or acronym-based question; TARA = Tactical Advanced Range Augmentation, first modular range-extension glide kit, tested by DRDO and IAF in May 2026 off Odisha.