Category: Weapons

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646: PRECISION FROM AFAR: INDIA’S GLIDE BOMBS AND THE CHANGING FACE OF WARFARE

 

My Article was published on the EurasianTimes Website

on 13 April 25.

 

In early April 2025, India successfully tested two indigenously developed glide bombs. The first, Long-Range Glide Bomb (LRGB) named “Gaurav,” was tested between April 8 and 10, 2025, from a Sukhoi Su-30 MKI fighter jet of the Indian Air Force (IAF). This 1,000-kg class bomb, designed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with Research Centre Imarat, Armament Research and Development Establishment, and Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, demonstrated a range close to 100 kilometers with pinpoint accuracy. The trials involved multiple warhead configurations and targeted a land-based site on an island, paving the way for its induction into the IAF. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat praised the achievement, highlighting its role in enhancing India’s standoff strike capabilities and self-reliance in defence technology.

The second was the lightweight “Glide” bomb, called the SAAW (Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon), which the IAF and DRDO test-fired in Odisha. The SAAW is a lightweight, precision-guided bomb designed to target enemy airfields, runways, bunkers, and other reinforced structures at ranges up to 100 kilometers. Weighing approximately 125 kilograms, it features advanced guidance systems, including electro-optical sensors, for high accuracy. The weapon has been integrated with platforms like the Jaguar and Su-30 MKI, with plans to equip it on the Dassault Rafale and HAL Tejas MK1A. Three tests were carried out under varying release conditions and ranges, all successful. The DRDO Chairman announced that the SAAW is set for imminent induction into the armed forces, enhancing India’s precision-guided munitions arsenal.

These developments underscore India’s push toward indigenous defence solutions amid regional competition. Both bombs offer cost-effective, accurate, and standoff strike options to engage targets while keeping aircraft beyond enemy air defences. In the ever-evolving landscape of modern warfare, long-range glide bombs have emerged as a transformative technology, blending precision, affordability, and strategic flexibility. These munitions, designed to glide over extended distances to strike targets with pinpoint accuracy, have redefined how militaries project power, neutralise threats, and minimise risks to personnel and assets.

 

Long-Range Glide Bombs

Long-range glide bombs, sometimes called standoff glide munitions, are unpowered or minimally powered precision-guided weapons that rely on aerodynamic lift to travel extended distances after being released from an aircraft. Unlike traditional free-fall bombs, glide bombs have wings or fins that allow them to glide toward their target, often covering ranges from tens to hundreds of kilometers. They typically incorporate advanced guidance systems—such as GPS, inertial navigation, or laser homing—to ensure accuracy, even against moving or heavily defended targets.

The effectiveness of long-range glide bombs lies in their simplicity and adaptability. A typical glide bomb consists of several key components:-

    • Warhead. The explosive payload can range from 100 kilograms to over a ton, depending on the target. Warheads may be high-explosive, bunker-busting, or fragmentation-based.
    • Guidance System. Most glide bombs use a combination of GPS and inertial navigation for all-weather accuracy. Some advanced models incorporate laser or infrared seekers for terminal guidance, enabling strikes on moving targets.
    • Aerodynamic Surfaces. Foldable wings or fins provide lift, allowing the bomb to glide efficiently. The glide ratio—distance travelled per unit of altitude lost—determines the weapon’s range.
    • Control Unit. An onboard computer processes navigation data and adjusts control surfaces to keep the bomb on course.

When deployed, a glide bomb is released at a high altitude (typically 30,000–40,000 feet) and high speed. The launch aircraft’s momentum and altitude provide the initial energy, while the bomb’s wings extend to maximise the glide distance. As it descends, the guidance system corrects its trajectory, ensuring it hits within meters of the intended target. Some systems, like the U.S.’s Small Diameter Bomb (SDB) GBU-39, can achieve ranges exceeding 100 kilometers under optimal conditions.

These munitions bridge the gap between conventional bombs and cruise missiles. While cruise missiles are self-propelled and highly autonomous, they are expensive and complex. Glide bombs, by contrast, are more cost-effective.

 

Historical Context and Global Developments

The concept of glide bombs dates back to World War II, with early examples like Germany’s Fritz-X, a radio-guided bomb used to attack ships. However, these primitive weapons lacked the range and precision of modern systems. The development of long-range glide bombs gained momentum in the late 20th century as advancements in electronics, aerodynamics, and satellite navigation enabled greater accuracy and standoff capabilities.

The U.S. military’s Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) program, introduced in the 1990s, marked a significant milestone. JDAM kits transform unguided “dumb” bombs into precision-guided munitions by adding tail fins and GPS guidance. While early JDAMs had limited range, subsequent variants like the JDAM-ER (Extended Range) incorporated foldable wings, extending their reach to over 70 kilometers. Other nations, including Russia, China, and European powers, have since developed their glide bomb systems, such as Russia’s KAB-500 series and China’s LS-6 precision-guided bombs.

Recent conflicts, particularly in Ukraine and the Middle East, have showcased the growing prominence of glide bombs. For example, Russia has extensively used glide bombs like the FAB-500-M62 with UMPK kits, allowing Su-34 and Su-35 aircraft to strike targets from beyond the reach of short-range air defences. Similarly, Western-supplied glide bombs, such as France’s AASM Hammer, have been employed by Ukraine to target Russian positions with high precision.

 

Strategic Advantages

Long-range glide bombs offer several strategic benefits that make them indispensable in modern warfare:-

    • Standoff Capability. Gliding bombs allow aircraft to strike from beyond the range of enemy air defences, reducing the risk to pilots and platforms. This is particularly valuable against adversaries with sophisticated surface-to-air missile systems.
    • Cost-Effectiveness. Compared to cruise missiles, which can cost millions per unit, glide bombs are far cheaper. For example, a JDAM-ER kit costs around $20,000–$40,000, making it a budget-friendly option for precision strikes.
    • Versatility. Glide bombs can be tailored to various targets, from fortified bunkers to mobile convoys. Modular warheads and guidance systems allow militaries to adapt them for specific missions.
    • Mass Deployment. Because they are relatively inexpensive and easy to produce, glide bombs can be used in large numbers to overwhelm defences or saturate key targets.
    • Reduced Collateral Damage. Precision guidance minimises unintended destruction, making glide bombs suitable for urban environments or near civilian infrastructure.

 

Challenges and Limitations

Despite their advantages, long-range glide bombs are not without drawbacks. Their unpowered nature makes them dependent on the launch platform’s altitude and speed, limiting their range compared to powered missiles. Additionally, while GPS guidance is efficient, it can be disrupted by electronic jamming or spoofing, as seen in conflicts like Ukraine, where Russian forces have employed electronic warfare to degrade GPS-dependent munitions. Glide bombs are also vulnerable to advanced air defences if launched within the interceptors’ range. For instance, systems like the Patriot or S-400 can engage glide bombs at certain altitudes and distances.

 

Global Proliferation and Future Trends

The proliferation of long-range glide bombs is reshaping global military dynamics. Countries like India, Turkey, and South Korea are investing heavily in indigenous glide bomb programs. At the same time, non-state actors and smaller nations seek access to these technologies through exports or reverse-engineering. This democratisation of precision strike capability could complicate future conflicts, enabling asymmetric actors to challenge stronger adversaries.

Future advancements in artificial intelligence and autonomous navigation will likely enhance glide bomb capabilities. AI-driven guidance could allow bombs to adapt to jamming or dynamically select targets in real time. Hypersonic glide bombs, which combine high speed with extended range and are also under development, promise to blur the line between bombs and missiles further.

 

Conclusion

Strategically, glide bombs shift the balance between offense and defence. By enabling standoff strikes, they challenge traditional air defence paradigms, forcing adversaries to invest in more advanced countermeasures. This arms race could drive up military spending and destabilise regions already prone to conflict.

Long-range glide bombs represent a pivotal evolution in precision warfare, offering militaries a cost-effective, versatile, and low-risk means of projecting power. Their ability to strike from a distance accurately has made them a cornerstone of modern arsenals, from superpowers to emerging nations. However, their proliferation and potential for misuse underscore the need to consider their ethical and strategic implications carefully. As technology advances, glide bombs will likely play an even more significant role in shaping the battlefields of tomorrow, balancing destructive power with the promise of precision.

 

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Link to the article on the website:-

Bomb, Missile Or A Fusion? India Turns To Long-Range Glide Bombs That Proved “Effective” In Ukraine War

 

References and credits

To all the online sites and channels.

Pics Courtesy: Internet

Disclaimer:

Information and data included in the blog are for educational & non-commercial purposes only and have been carefully adapted, excerpted, or edited from reliable and accurate sources. All copyrighted material belongs to respective owners and is provided only for wider dissemination.

 

References:–

  1. Press Information Bureau (PIB), Government of India. “Successful Flight-Test of Indigenous Glide Bombs ‘Gaurav’ and ‘SAAW'”. PIB, April 11, 2025.
  1. Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), “DRDO Conducts Successful Trials of ‘Gaurav’ and ‘SAAW’ Glide Bombs”, DRDO, April 10, 2025.
  1. The Hindu, “India Successfully Tests Indigenous Glide Bombs ‘Gaurav’ and ‘SAAW'”, The Hindu, April 12, 2025.
  1. Hindustan Times, “DRDO’s ‘Gaurav’ and ‘SAAW’ Glide Bombs Set for Induction into IAF”, Hindustan Times, April 12, 2025.
  2. Livefist Defence, “Inside India’s Glide Bomb Program: ‘Gaurav’ and ‘SAAW’ Take Flight”, Livefist Defence, April 11, 2025.
  1. Observer Research Foundation (ORF), “India’s Glide Bomb Advancements: Strategic Implications and Regional Dynamics”, ORF, April 2025.
  1. Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (IDSA), “Enhancing Precision Strike Capabilities: The Role of ‘Gaurav’ and ‘SAAW'”, IDSA, April 2025.
  1. Jane’s Defence Weekly. “DRDO’s Gaurav and Gautham: India’s Smart Glide Bombs Take Shape.” Janes.com, August 2023.
  1. IISS. “India’s Precision Strike Capabilities: Strategy and Deployment.” Strategic Dossier, International Institute for Strategic Studies, 2023.
  1. Defence Decode. “Gaurav vs Gautham: Decoding India’s New Air-Launched Precision Bombs.” YouTube / Defence Decode Channel, March 2024.
  1. RAND Corporation. “Emerging Military Technologies in South Asia: Glide Bombs and Beyond.” RAND Brief, 2023.
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629: LEONIDAS BY EPIRUS: STAR TREK STYLE SHIELD OF DIRECTED ENERGY WEAPON

 

My Article published on the EurasianTimes Website on 28 Mar 25.

 

The most recent and significant news, announced in March 2025, is that Epirus Inc., a defence technology start-up based in Torrance, California, has unveiled the Leonidas system, a high-power microwave (HPM) weapon designed to neutralise unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) swarms. This innovative system emits electromagnetic pulses to disable drones individually or across a broad area, offering a scalable solution to counter drone threats. The Leonidas system has been likened to a “Star Trek-style” shield due to its ability to disable or destroy drones within seconds. Beyond its counter-drone capabilities, the Leonidas system’s versatility allows it to disable electronics in ground vehicles and sea vessels, demonstrating its potential across various defences.

In the rapidly evolving landscape of modern warfare, unmanned aerial systems (UAS) have emerged as a significant and multifaceted threat. Due to their high operational costs and limited ammunition capacity, traditional defence mechanisms, such as missiles or anti-aircraft guns, struggle to keep pace with these agile, numerous, and often low-cost adversaries. The Leonidas system addresses these challenges through directed energy technology, allowing for rapid, reusable, and cost-effective simultaneous engagement of multiple threats.

Named after the legendary Spartan king who famously stood against overwhelming odds at Thermopylae, the Leonidas system embodies a bold and forward-thinking approach to defence. Leveraging cutting-edge HPM technology, it offers a non-kinetic alternative to conventional systems, addressing one of the most pressing challenges of the 21st century.

 

High-Power Microwave Technology. HPM systems generate electromagnetic waves ranging from 300 MHz to 300 GHz. Unlike the microwaves used in household ovens to heat food by exciting water molecules, HPM delivers intense bursts of energy capable of inducing currents in electronic circuits. When directed at a target, these microwaves can disrupt or permanently damage sensitive components, rendering devices like drones inoperable. HPM’s ability to affect a broader area rather than a single pinpoint sets it apart from other directed energy technologies, such as lasers. This makes it particularly effective against multiple targets or swarms, a critical advantage in scenarios where dozens or hundreds of drones might be deployed simultaneously. Historically, HPM systems relied on vacuum tube technology, which was bulky, fragile, and maintenance-intensive. However, recent advancements in solid-state electronics have revolutionised the field. Solid-state HPM systems, like the one powering Leonidas, use semiconductor devices to generate microwaves, offering greater durability, efficiency, and compactness, attributes that make the technology viable for real-world deployment.

 

The Leonidas System.

The Leonidas system is a pinnacle of Epirus’s expertise in solid-state HPM technology. While proprietary details remain closely guarded, the key aspects of its design and functionality can be based on the general principles of HPM and publicly available information.

 At its core, the system likely features an array of solid-state amplifiers that generate and amplify microwave signals. These signals are then emitted through a steerable antenna, allowing operators to direct the HPM beam toward specific targets or areas. The power output of the Leonidas system would be a critical factor in its effectiveness. Although exact specifications are not disclosed, HPM systems typically produce peak powers ranging from hundreds of kilowatts to several megawatts. This energy is sufficient to disable the electronics of drones within a specific range, which depends on factors such as power levels, frequency, and atmospheric conditions. Unlike lasers, which maintain a tight beam over long distances, HPM waves experience divergence and can be attenuated by moisture or particles in the air, potentially limiting their range. However, this constraint is less significant for counter-drone applications where threats are often within a few kilometers.

Advanced targeting and control systems are integral to the Leonidas platform. These likely include radar or optical sensors to detect and track drones, paired with sophisticated software that prioritises targets and adjusts the beam’s intensity and direction. The result is a highly responsive system capable of engaging fast-moving threats with near-instantaneous effect, as HPM travels at the speed of light. These systems also enable the Leonidas to distinguish between friendly and hostile drones, reducing the risk of friendly fire and enhancing its effectiveness in complex operational environments.

Epirus has developed fixed and mobile versions of the Leonidas system, enhancing its versatility. Stationary installations might protect critical infrastructure, while vehicle-mounted units could support troops in the field, offering a flexible defence against dynamic threats.

 

Applications

The primary mission of the Leonidas system is to counter drone threats, a capability that addresses a growing concern in military and civilian contexts. The Leonidas system excels in such scenarios, using its wide-area HPM effects to disable multiple drones with a single burst. This makes it an ideal solution for protecting military installations, convoys, or naval vessels from both individual and coordinated drone attacks.

Beyond counter-drone operations, the Leonidas system holds promise for electronic warfare. Targeting enemy communication systems, radars, or other electronic equipment could degrade an adversary’s situational awareness or operational capabilities without firing a shot. Additionally, the technology might be adapted to disable vehicles or machinery reliant on electronic controls, though this could require higher power levels or closer proximity to the target.

Epirus has also hinted at broader applications, such as non-lethal uses for perimeter security or crowd control. In these scenarios, HPM could deter intrusions or disable unauthorised devices without causing permanent harm, offering a versatile tool for law enforcement or homeland security.

 

Advantages. 

The Leonidas system offers several compelling advantages over conventional kinetic defence systems, making it a game-changer in the fight against emerging threats.

    • Cost-Effectiveness. Engaging a target with HPM requires only electrical energy, a fraction of the cost of expending missiles or ammunition. This is particularly advantageous against low-cost drones, where using expensive munitions is economically unsustainable.
    • Precision and Control. Operators can tune the system to affect specific areas or targets, minimising collateral damage. Adjusting power output in real time allows it to respond to varying threat levels with tailored precision.
    • Scalability. From small consumer drones to larger military UAS, the Leonidas system can adapt its energy output to neutralise a wide range of targets, offering flexibility across different operational contexts.
    • Unlimited Magazine. Unlike guns or missile launchers with finite ammunition, the Leonidas system can operate continuously as long as it has power, making it ideal for prolonged engagements or swarm attacks.

 

Challenges

Despite its promise, the Leonidas system faces several technical and operational challenges that must be addressed for widespread adoption:-

    • Power Requirements. Generating high-power microwaves demands significant electrical energy. For mobile deployments, this necessitates robust power sources, such as large batteries or generators that could limit the system’s portability or require frequent recharging.
    • Range and Environmental Limitations. HPM’s effectiveness decreases with distance due to beam divergence and atmospheric absorption. Adverse weather conditions, such as rain or fog, could further reduce performance, potentially requiring multiple units for comprehensive coverage.
    • Integration with Existing Systems. Incorporating a novel technology like HPM into established defence frameworks involves significant hurdles. This includes adapting hardware, training personnel, and developing tactics to maximise its utility alongside traditional systems.
    • Unintended Disruptions. HPM’s broad-area effects could inadvertently interfere with friendly electronics, communication networks, or civilian infrastructure if not carefully managed. Robust targeting and safety protocols are essential to mitigate this risk.
    • Strategic Considerations. While primarily defensive, the ability to disable electronics at a distance raises questions about potential offensive applications or escalation in conflicts. International laws and treaties governing directed energy weapons may need to evolve to address these concerns and ensure responsible use.

 

Impact and Future Prospects

Epirus has successfully tested the Leonidas system, showcasing its ability to neutralise drone swarms with precision and speed. These demonstrations have attracted global attention from military and defence organisations, underscoring the system’s potential to fill a critical gap in countermeasures. Partnerships with defence contractors or government agencies signal growing confidence in HPM technology and its readiness for operational deployment.

Looking to the future, Epirus may enhance the Leonidas system with more significant power outputs to tackle more prominent or more resilient targets. Integration with complementary technologies, such as lasers, could create a multi-layered defence system, combining HPM’s wide-area effects with a laser’s pinpoint accuracy. Advances in artificial intelligence and machine learning could also enable autonomous operation, allowing the system to detect, prioritise, and engage threats in complex environments with minimal human intervention.

The broader implications of the Leonidas system extend beyond immediate defence needs. As directed-energy weapons gain traction, they could influence global military strategies, potentially sparking an arms race or prompting new regulatory frameworks. For now, its focus on countering drones positions it as a vital tool in an increasingly drone-dominated world.

 

Global DEW Projects

Directed energy weapons (DEWs) are advanced technologies that use focused energy, such as lasers or microwaves, to disable or destroy targets without physical projectiles. Numerous countries are researching and developing these weapons, each with unique projects and strategic goals.

United States. The US is a leader in DEW development. Besides Leonidas, the Department of Defence (DOD) and agencies like DARPA, the Air Force Research Laboratory, and the Naval Research Laboratory are researching DEWs to counter ballistic missiles and hypersonic cruise missiles. Notable projects include the High-Energy Laser Scaling Initiative (HELSI) and systems like HELIOS, with demonstrations successfully shooting down drones.

China. China is making rapid strides in DEW development, with a focus on high-energy lasers and microwave systems. State media and manufacturers have released images of handheld and vehicle-mounted laser systems, including the LW-30, a 30kW road-mobile high-energy laser (HEL) designed for unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and precision-guided weapons. Their efforts extend to counter space applications, with ground-based DEWs potentially targeting satellites, as highlighted in analyses.

Russia. Russia has been developing DEWs for decades, with the Peresvet laser weapon system entering experimental combat duty in 2018 and claimed operational use during the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. A more advanced version, “Zadira,” can incinerate targets up to three miles away within five seconds. Russia is also working on EMP cannons and microwave guns for anti-drone applications.

United Kingdom. The UK’s Ministry of Defence (MOD) is investing heavily in DEWs, with projects like DragonFire, a laser-directed energy weapon (LDEW) that achieved its first high-power firing against aerial targets in January 2024 at the Hebrides Range.  DragonFire, with a range classified but capable of hitting a £1 coin from a kilometer away, is expected to be deployable by 2027. Additionally, the Radio Frequency Directed Energy Weapon (RFDEW) is nearing service by 2026, focusing on countering unmanned systems.

France and Germany. France and Germany are key players in European DEW development, often through multinational collaborations. France is involved in projects like the TALOS-TWO, involving 21 partners across eight EU nations. Germany is focusing on integrating DEWs into defence platforms. These efforts aim for operational deployment by 2030, emphasising cost-effective counter-drone and missile defence systems.

India. India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is actively pursuing DEWs, with projects like the Directionally Unrestricted Ray-Gun Array (DURGA II), a 100-kilowatt lightweight DEW at the concept stage, set for integration with land, sea, and air platforms. Other initiatives include the KALI particle accelerator and a 1KW laser weapon for counter-IED operations, with plans for 25-kW and 100-kW systems.

Israel. Israel is advancing the Iron Beam laser-based DEW, designed to complement its Iron Dome system. A contract signed in October 2024 for operational service within a year reflects its cost-effectiveness. The US has allocated $1.2 billion for Iron Beam procurement.

Iran and Turkey. They claim DEWs in active service, adding controversy to global assessments. Iran has announced developments in laser air defence systems, while Turkey claims the ALKA DEW was used in combat in Libya in 2019. However, specifics and verification are scarce, with claims often met with scepticism due to limited transparency.

South Korea, Japan, and Australia. South Korea and Japan have advanced technological capabilities, with South Korea developing laser-based systems for counter-drone applications, though less prominently than significant powers. Japan focuses more on nuclear and space technologies, with limited public DEW projects. Australia is investing in DEW technology, particularly for countering drones, with a $13 million deal with QinetiQ for a prototype defensive laser.

 

Conclusion

The Leonidas system by Epirus marks a transformative advancement in modern defence. It harnesses high-power microwave technology to address the escalating threat of drones and electronic-based hazards. Its non-kinetic approach offers a cost-effective, precise, and scalable solution that outperforms traditional systems in key areas, from countering swarms to enabling electronic warfare. While challenges such as power demands, environmental constraints, and integration remain, the system’s successful demonstrations and growing adoption signal its readiness to make a lasting impact.

The future of Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs) is promising, with advancements in laser, microwave, and particle beam technologies enhancing their effectiveness. These weapons offer rapid engagement, precision targeting, and cost efficiency, making them invaluable for missile defence, drone neutralisation, and electronic warfare. However, hurdles such as energy storage, environmental limitations, and legal-ethical concerns must be overcome. As nations invest in DEW research, their role in modern warfare will expand, shaping the next generation of defence capabilities.

 

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References and credits

To all the online sites and channels.

Pics Courtesy: Internet

Disclaimer:

Information and data included in the blog are for educational & non-commercial purposes only and have been carefully adapted, excerpted, or edited from reliable and accurate sources. All copyrighted material belongs to respective owners and is provided only for wider dissemination.

 

 

Link to the article on the website:-

One Shot, 100 Kills! U.S. Unleashes “Revolutionary” HPM Weapon That Can ‘Fry’ Hostile UAVs Within Seconds

 

References:-

  1. Epirus Inc. “Leonidas High-Power Microwave: Directed Energy for Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (cUAS).” Epirus Official Website. ​
  1. DefenceScoop. “Marines to Get New Drone-Killing Microwave Weapon Designed for Expeditionary Operations.” DefenceScoop, September 23, 2024. ​
  1. Axios. “Drone-Frying Defence Firm Epirus Raises $250 Million.” Axios, March 5, 2025. ​
  1. Reuters. “Defence Tech Startup Epirus Secures $250 Million to Make Anti-Drone Weapons.” Reuters, March 5, 2025. ​
  1. Army Technology. “Leonidas High-Power Microwave System, US.” Army Technology, August 2024. ​
  1. Unmanned Airspace. “Epirus to Deliver Leonidas Expeditionary Air Defence System to US Navy.” Unmanned Airspace, September 2024. ​
  1. NightDragon. “Building the Future of Air Defense: Our Investment in Epirus.” NightDragon Insights, March 2025. ​
  1. “The Future of War: How Directed Energy Weapons Are Changing Military Strategy.” Defence One, October 2023.
  1. “Laser Weapons and High-Power Microwaves: The Pentagon’s Next-Generation Arsenal.” The National Interest, November 2023.
  1. “Directed Energy Weapons and the Challenge of Counter-Drone Warfare.” C4ISRNET, July 2024.
  1. “How Lasers and Microwaves Are Redefining the Battlefield.” Defense News, August 2024.
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624: F-35 Stealth Vs Beast Mode

 

Israel’s recent revelation about deploying the F-35 in beast mode, carrying weapons externally during aerial strikes, prompts a deeper exploration. This strategic decision, while compromising the aircraft’s stealth, is a calculated move. The understanding of going beast mode over Gaza, with its negligible air defence, is clear. However, the prospect of employing this mode in Lebanon or Iran, with their formidable air defences, presents a complex operational challenge. This raises the question: what are the operational intricacies of using the beast mode in such scenarios?

 

The F-35, in its ‘stealth mode,’ carries weapons internally, effectively reducing its radar signature. However, when it transitions to ‘beast mode,’ carrying weapons externally, it sacrifices this stealth advantage for increased firepower. This Trade-off is a crucial consideration in military operations.

 

In “beast mode,” it carries additional munitions on external pylons. This configuration increases the aircraft’s radar cross-section (RCS), making it more detectable by enemy radar.

 

Beast mode increases the F-35’s firepower by allowing it to carry more ordnance, maximising strike efficiency against numerous ground targets.

 

However, Israel’s use of the F-35 in beast mode likely depends on the specific operational environment and objectives.

 

The Beast Mode can be used in the following operational scenarios:-

    • The enemy has no air defence capability or weapons.
    • SEAD (Suppression of Enemy Air Defences) missions have degraded the enemy’s radar and SAM capabilities.
    • One way to mitigate the risks of flying in beast mode is by staying out of the enemy’s air defence weapons range. This can be achieved through intelligence-supported operational planning and/or stand-off attacks. The role of intelligence and meticulous planning in these operations cannot be overstated.
    • Using escort and suppression support from electronic warfare platforms to mitigate the risks of flying in beast mode.

 

Low Threat Environment (Gaza Strikes). Against Hamas and other militant groups in Gaza, stealth is unnecessary since they lack sophisticated radar-guided air defences. Beast mode can be used in a risk environment to maximise firepower.

 

Lebanon (Hezbollah) Strikes. Hezbollah has comparatively more advanced air defence capabilities than Hamas, including Iranian-made radars and some older Russian SAMs. Beast mode can be used in a medium-risk environment by avoiding enemy air defences.

 

Iran Strikes—A Different Challenge. Iran operates a more sophisticated air defence network. Using beast mode over Iran would be risky because the F-35 would be much more visible on Iranian radar, and Iran’s long-range SAMs could engage the aircraft before it reaches the target. Beast mode can be used in a high-risk environment after neutralising enemy air defences.

 

Link to the article by Sakshi Tiwari :-

After 1st Combat Use Of F-35, Israel Achieves Another First By Flying Adir Stealth Fighters In “Beast Mode”

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