HAMMER bombs: Here’s all about how the guided bomb system that will enhance Indian Rafale’s strike capability
After clearing the massive Rs 3.2 lakh crore deal for 114 Rafale fighter jets along with SCALP missiles, India is now set to move ahead with the HAMMER programme. Apart from Rafale and SCALP, the HAMMER guided bomb system is expected to boost Rafale’s standoff capability .
The precision-guided munitions will be manufactured in India through a 50-50 joint venture between Bharat Electronics Limited and Safran Electronics & Defence, strengthening domestic production capabilities while advancing bilateral strategic cooperation. The two sides are expected to sign a memorandum of understanding during the meeting.
Alongside the missile programme, discussions between India and France are also expected to address the proposed acquisition of 114 Dassault Rafale fighter jets. Under the plan being discussed, 96 aircraft would be manufactured in India, while the remaining jets would be delivered in fly-away condition. Deliveries would be overseen by Dassault Aviation.
Also read: Rafale, SCALP get DAC nod; Meteor missile next? How India is planning to make ‘Op Sindoor hero’ a mighty fighter
What is HAMMER bomb system ?
HAMMER, officially designated AASM from the French Armement Air-Sol Modulaire, is a precision-guided air-to-ground stand-off weapon developed to bridge the gap between conventional bombs and cruise missiles.
Although often described as a missile, it is fundamentally a guided bomb system that converts standard unguided bombs into high-precision strike weapons through modular guidance and propulsion kits. The system is developed by Safran Electronics & Defense.
AASM HAMMER has a reported range of over 70 km and is designed as a smart air-to-surface weapon capable of operating in all weather conditions. It is autonomous and designed to be insensitive to jamming. The weapon can also be launched from low altitude and over rough terrain.
The system comprises two primary components. The first is a nose-mounted guidance kit responsible for navigation and targeting. Three qualified guidance kit configurations are available: INS/GPS; INS/GPS/IR; and INS/GPS/laser. These combinations enable all-weather capability, engagement of fixed targets through infrared imaging, and strikes against moving targets using laser guidance.
Modular design with extended range capability
The second component is a tail-mounted range extension kit equipped with a solid-fuel rocket booster and manoeuvrable winglets. After release, the booster increases the stand-off range, while the winglets allow sharp turns and off-axis attack profiles. This enables aircraft to conduct precision strikes while remaining outside heavily defended airspace.
AASM HAMMER is compatible with standard bomb bodies weighing 125 kg, 250 kg, 500 kg and 1,000 kg, including the Mark 80 series. This modular and interoperable design allows it to address a wide spectrum of tactical requirements, from lightly protected targets to hardened structures.
In operational settings, the system’s modularity, manoeuvrability, extended range and resistance to interference make it suited to modern air operations that require flexibility and controlled escalation across varied strike missions.
HAMMER was used in Operation Sindoor
HAMMER precision-guided munitions were deployed by the Indian Air Force during Operation Sindoor on 7 May 2025 as part of a calibrated cross-border strike. The weapon was selected for targets that required accuracy, flexibility and controlled engagement.
Designed as a modular air-to-ground stand-off system, HAMMER enabled aircraft to strike from a safe distance without entering heavily defended airspace. Its multiple guidance options and off-axis launch capability allowed mission planners to adapt attacks based on target type and operational conditions. The system’s precision also helped limit collateral damage, aligning military action with broader strategic messaging.
The operation also underscored the operational relevance of platforms such as the Dassault Rafale, which is integrated to deploy advanced stand-off weapons including HAMMER. Ongoing discussions between India and France over the proposed acquisition of 114 additional Rafale jets are expected to further strengthen this capability. Under the plan, 96 aircraft would be manufactured in India, with the remaining delivered in fly-away condition under the supervision of Dassault Aviation.
Together, the integration of HAMMER munitions and Rafale fighter jets reflects India’s emphasis on precision strike capability, stand-off engagement and deeper defence cooperation with France.
