In massive boost to IAF firepower, Rafale jets to be equipped with HAMMER missile: Sources

Even as first batch of Rafale jets is set to arrive by July 29, India will furr boost ir capability by equipping m with HAMMER missiles from France. Designed and manufactured for French Air Force and Navy, HAMMER (Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range) is a medium-range air-to-ground weapon. As per sources, Indian Air Force placed order for HAMMER standoff missiles under emergency powers for acquisition given by Centre. Sources added that French authorities have agreed to supply HAMMER missiles for Rafale aircraft at a short tice. 

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Ability to destroy bunkers

With a range of 60-70 km, HAMMER missile lends India capability to destroy bunkers, hardened shelters and or targets in all or terrains including mountaius locations such as Eastern Ladakh. This assumes significance in wake of prolonged standoff with China at Line of Actual Control. Reportedly, a single Rafale fighter jet can carry up to 6 HAMMER missiles to hit multiple targets simultaneously. 

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Rafale deal

government of India signed a deal with French government and Dassault Aviation to procure 36 Rafale fighter jets to bolster India’s urgent requirement on eastern and western borders in September 2016. It costs more than 7.8 billion euros. While Defence Minister Rajnath Singh received first Rafale during his visit to  Dassault Aviation facility in Mérignac, France on October 8, 2019, aircraft were originally scheduled to arrive in country by May-end after being refitted with India-specific enhancements. However, delivery of aircraft has been postponed by two months in wake of COVID-19 crisis in India and France. Sources add that first Rafale shall be piloted by  Commanding Officer of 17 Golden Arrows' squadron along with a French pilot.

Advants of Rafale

Being a Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA), Rafale jet is kwn for its speed, weapon holding capacity and attack capability.  Rafale is powered by two SNECMA M88 engines, which helps it attain a high speed of 1,912 km per hour and a range of more than 3,700 km. Equipped with AESA radar, SPECTRA Electronic Warfare System and IRST system, Rafale is categorized as a 4.5 generation aircraft. This is invaluable as IAF currently has only third and fourth generation fighter jets. However, its biggest advant is its capability of delivering nuclear weapons. 

Read: France Will Ensure Timely Delivery Of Rafale Fighter Aircraft Despite Covid: Rajnath Singh

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