What is Precision Guided Bomb-500? How powerful is it in terms of weight, power and features? How will the test be done with Sukhoi Su-30MKI

Precision Guided Bomb-500: India is continuously working on indigenous weapon systems to further strengthen the strike capability of its Air Force. In this context, the discussion regarding PGB-500 (Precision Guided Bomb-500) has intensified. DRDO and Indian Air Force are going to conduct carriage and release trials of indigenous PGB-500 precision-guided bomb from Su-30MKI in September-October 2026. It will be flight tested on Sukhoi Su-30MKI aircraft. The test will examine take-off, aerodynamic balance and safe release.

This step will also strengthen India’s defense self-reliance campaign and can prove to be very good in reducing dependence on foreign weapon systems. Let us know about the capabilities and features of Precision Guided Bomb-500.

PGB-500 uses not just one but several modern system technologies, which makes it quite different. According to media reports, it may include capabilities like GPS/INS based navigation and terminal homing. Its warhead has been designed keeping in mind penetration and blast effect. However, the official TNT-equivalent explosive capacity of the PGB-500 has not been disclosed yet.

According to media reports, PGB-500 has a solid weight of 500 kg. It has been made with such technology that it can destroy enemy bunkers. This helps in delivering the weapon to the target with more accuracy. Such a capability could be of great use against targets such as fortified bunkers, command centers and strategic structures. However, its actual operational capabilities will become clear only after final tests and official approval.

PGB-500 will be tested with Sukhoi Su-30MKI. Actually, PGB-500 is being integrated with Su-30MKI. In the test, the fighter jet will fly with the bomb on its pylon. During this, drag, aerodynamic load and handling of the aircraft will be tested. Release trials will take place after this process is completed. In this trial it will especially be seen whether the bomb separates safely from the aircraft or not. Not only this, how stable is its flight after release and whether it remains so or not. Indian weapons like BrahMos and Astra have already been added to the PGB-500.