What is the common examiner trap about Science & Tech in UPSC exams?

They may ask which DRDO lab developed it, confusing RCI with other labs like DRDL or ADA. They might also swap the guidance system type (e.g., 'laser-guided' vs. 'inertial + satellite-based') or the weight range of warheads.

What should UPSC aspirants remember about Science & Tech for Prelims?

1. Target this Data: TARA system tested on May 7, 2026, from the Odisha coast. 2. Target this Nodal Body: Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad, a DRDO laboratory. 3. Target this Legal Point: Development undertaken with Development cum Production Partners (DcPPs) model.

Science & TechnologySecurity

Take AI Challenge ▸

News 0 of 23

DRDO's TARA Glide Weapon System Successfully Tested: Converts Unguided Bombs into Precision Munitions

Q: The TARA glide weapon system has been designed and developed by which DRDO laboratory?

Research Centre Imarat (RCI), As per the article, the TARA system was designed and developed by the Hyderabad-based DRDO facility Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in collaboration with other DRDO labs and industry partners.

Q: Consider the following statements regarding the TARA glide weapon system: 1. It is a modular kit that can be attached to a conventional unguided warhead. 2. It uses a rocket motor for propulsion to extend the missile's range. 3. It is India's first glide weapon to utilize state-of-the-art low-cost systems. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Both 1 and 3, Statement 1 is correct: TARA is a modular kit for unguided warheads. Statement 2 is incorrect: The article states it glides rather than relying on a rocket motor, making it lightweight. Statement 3 is correct: The Defence Ministry stated it is the first glide weapon to use low-cost systems.

Q: The TARA system is being produced in versions to be used with warheads of different weights. What is the range of these warhead weights as mentioned in the article?

250 to 500 kg, The article explicitly states that three TARA versions are being produced to be used with warheads of different weights ranging from 250 to 500 kg.

Q: What is the primary strategic significance of the TARA glide weapon system for the Indian Air Force?

It enhances the IAF's stand-off strike capability against enemy air defences., The article highlights that TARA is strategically significant because it enhances stand-off strike capability, meaning an aircraft can hit targets from a distance that puts it out of the reach of air defence systems, increasing aircraft survivability.

Science & Tech Security & DefenceHIGH

Target:UPSC GS-IIIMPSCTeachingSSC GAPrelims HighMains Medium

09 May 2026

~2 min

Source: Indian Express

Key Data:Test Date: May 7, 2026Warhead Weight: 250-500 kg

Bodies:DRDOIndian Air Force (IAF)Research Centre Imarat (RCI)Ministry of Defence

Practice MCQs from today's news ▸

~2 min · Quick mode

What This Article Covers

1.DRDO and IAF successfully test-fired the indigenous Tactical Advanced Range Augmentation (TARA) glide weapon system.

2.The modular kit converts unguided bombs into guided munitions, extending range and accuracy using inertial navigation and satellite positioning.

3.This development is strategically important for enhancing stand-off strike capability, reducing costs, and boosting indigenous defence production.

The Big Picture

Prelims · HighMains · Medium

DRDO and IAF have successfully tested the indigenous TARA glide weapon system, a modular kit that attaches to conventional unguided bombs, transforming them into long-range precision-guided munitions. This development enhances India's stand-off strike capabilities and reduces import dependence in a cost-effective manner.

Exam Lens

Quick Exam Facts From News

System NameTactical Advanced Range Augmentation (TARA)

Test DateMay 7, 2026

Versions Under ProductionThree weight variants

Warhead Weight Range250 to 500 kg

1-Minute Revision

›System Name: Tactical Advanced Range Augmentation (TARA)
›Test Date: May 7, 2026
›Target this Data: TARA system tested on May 7, 2026, from the Odisha coast.
›Target this Nodal Body: Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad, a DRDO laboratory.
›Target this Legal Point: Development undertaken with Development cum Production Partners (DcPPs) model.

Mastered this topic? Test your knowledge with a full MCQ quiz.

Practice exam-style questions, track your score, and strengthen your recall.

News Snapshot

🚀

Force Multiplier

The TARA system is a modular glide kit that upgrades 'dumb bombs' into smart, precision-guided munitions, enhancing the IAF's operational flexibility.

💰

Cost-Effective Modernization

This indigenous solution provides a low-cost alternative to developing new missile systems, allowing for rapid scaling of precision strike inventory.

🏭

Indigenous Production

Developed by DRDO's Research Centre Imarat (RCI) with Indian industry partners, the system is a step towards reducing import dependence in defence.

Detailed Analysis & Strategic Depth

Context / Background

Modern air warfare demands high-precision stand-off weapons to neutralize enemy targets while keeping aircraft safe from air defence systems. Traditionally, developing new guided missile systems is expensive and time-consuming. The TARA system addresses this by offering a retrofit solution to existing inventory, aligning with India's Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative in defence.

Core Analysis & Implications

The system's glide capability, powered by foldable wings and aerodynamic surfaces, allows it to cover long distances after being released from an aircraft. It uses a combination of inertial navigation and satellite-based positioning for guidance. This significantly enhances the IAF's stand-off strike capability, allowing it to engage targets from beyond the range of enemy air defences. The modular design means it can be adapted to various warhead classes (250-500 kg), offering operational versatility. Production by Indian industry partners under the Development cum Production Partner (DcPP) model boosts the defence manufacturing ecosystem.

Future Outlook / Way Forward

The successful flight trial is a critical milestone. The system will now undergo a series of developmental, validation, and user trials to evaluate its guidance accuracy, range, reliability, and performance from different platforms under varied conditions. Successful completion will lead to its induction into the IAF, marking a significant step in India's journey towards self-reliance in critical defence technologies.

Key Facts at a Glance

System NameTactical Advanced Range Augmentation (TARA)

Test DateMay 7, 2026

Versions Under ProductionThree weight variants

Warhead Weight Range250 to 500 kg

You've read the full analysis. Now test your understanding.

Practice exam-style questions based on this article.

Q1Static LinkageEasyUPSC, SSC, State PSC

The TARA glide weapon system has been designed and developed by which DRDO laboratory?

Q2Statement-basedHardUPSC, SSC

Consider the following statements regarding the TARA glide weapon system:

1. It is a modular kit that can be attached to a conventional unguided warhead.

2. It uses a rocket motor for propulsion to extend the missile's range.

3. It is India's first glide weapon to utilize state-of-the-art low-cost systems.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Q3Data-centricMediumUPSC, SSC, Defence exams

The TARA system is being produced in versions to be used with warheads of different weights. What is the range of these warhead weights as mentioned in the article?

Q4Application/ImpactMediumUPSC, Defence exams

What is the primary strategic significance of the TARA glide weapon system for the Indian Air Force?

All 25 MCQs ▸

Read original article from Indian Express

You finished this topic

Practice 3 MCQs from this news Next Article

Explore Related Topics

Science & TechView Topic MCQs →Security & DefenceView Topic MCQs →

Next Four Labour Codes Operationalised from 21 Nov 2025, Capping Weekly Work Hours at 48, Mandating National Reskilling Fund

Related Current Affairs

Security & Defence Current Affairs

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Approves Transfer of DRDO Conventional Missile Tech to Indian Industry

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved the transfer of DRDO-developed conventional missile system technologies to Indian defence industry for domestic production. This move aims to boost self-reliance, enhance MSME participation, and strengthen the defence industrial base under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Security & Defence Current Affairs

India Finalises Javelin ATGM Deal via US FMS After 16-Year Process; Co-Production with BDL in Focus

India has finally signed the Letter of Offer and Acceptance for the US-made Javelin anti-tank guided missiles after a 16-year procurement struggle. The deal, routed through Foreign Military Sales, shifts focus to co-assembly and co-production with Bharat Dynamics Limited, while the indigenous MPATGM programme also matures. For exams, remember the chronology: 2010 Javelin attempt → 2014 pivot to Spike → 2017 cancellation → 2019 emergency Spike-LR → 2025 Javelin revival.

Security & Defence Current Affairs

India’s Defence Sector Faces 40-45% Skill Gap in Specialised Roles by 2030, Warns Report

India's defence manufacturing is booming (production at ₹1.78 lakh crore, exports up 62.66%), but a structural talent gap threatens growth. A Quess Corp report warns 40-45% of specialised roles (radar, avionics, quantum communications) could remain unfilled by 2030. The core issue: conventional engineering education lacks the systems-level thinking and field exposure needed for defence deployability.

Security & Defence Current Affairs

MoD Signs ₹1,577 Cr Contracts for Loiter Munitions Under 'Buy Indian' Category

The Ministry of Defence has awarded contracts worth ₹1,577 crore to TASL and NIBE for 84 loiter munition systems with 840 munitions, boosting the Indian Army's precision-strike capability up to 100 km. This procurement under the 'Buy Indian' category with 60% indigenous content is a major step towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence manufacturing.

Science & Tech Current Affairs

HAL's LUH with 60% Indigenous Content Set to Replace Ageing Cheetah/Chetak Fleets

India's military helicopter fleet in the Himalayas is critically ageing, with Cheetah/Chetak helicopters over 50 years old. The indigenous Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) by HAL, with 60% indigenisation and 1,300+ hours of testing, is the strategic solution to enhance operational readiness and self-reliance under Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Security & Defence Current Affairs

PM Modi's 2026 I-Day Address Prioritises Aatmanirbhar Defence, Drones, Hypersonic Tech

PM Modi's 2026 Independence Day address pivots to next-generation defence: drones, counter-drone systems, hypersonic technology, and cybersecurity under Mission Sudarshan Chakra. With India's defence exports reaching about 100 countries, the address signals a shift from being a market for imports to a global supplier — a key theme for Prelims and Mains.

Security & Defence Current Affairs

₹1,943 Crore Deal: Indian Navy Leases 2 MQ-9B Sea Guardian Drones from US for 30 Months

The Ministry of Defence signed a ₹1,943 crore contract to lease two MQ-9B Sea Guardian drones from US firm General Atomics for 30 months, boosting Indian Navy's maritime surveillance capabilities across both eastern and western fronts. This expands the Navy's drone fleet to four units and bridges the gap until delivery of 31 MQ-9Bs ordered in 2024.

Intl. Relations Current Affairs

India-UK Sign IGA for Maritime Electric Propulsion for Navy LPDs, Procure LMM Missiles

India and UK are set to sign an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) for developing maritime electric propulsion systems for four Landing Platform Docks (LPDs) for the Indian Navy. Additionally, a second IGA for procurement of British Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMMs) for the Indian Army is imminent. This collaboration includes establishing India's first maritime Land-Based Testing Facility for Integrated Full Electric Propulsion (IFEP) by GE Vernova and BHEL.

Start Today's Quiz(25 Qs)

Take Today's Quiz

25 Qs • 5-7 Mins

DRDO's TARA Glide Weapon System Successfully Tested: Converts Unguided Bombs into Precision Munitions

Exam Lens

Quick Exam Facts From News

1-Minute Revision

News Snapshot

Force Multiplier

Cost-Effective Modernization

Indigenous Production

Detailed Analysis & Strategic Depth

Context / Background

Core Analysis & Implications

Future Outlook / Way Forward

Prelims Flashpoints

Key Facts at a Glance