Operation Sindoor: what is HAMMER bomb used to hit terror camps in Pakistan? how does It operate?
The Indian Armed Forces have struck nine terror training camps across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Pakistani Punjab under Operation Sindoor, delivering a powerful response to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam. Defence experts have hailed the operation as a well-planned and high-precision strike that showcased India’s advanced military capabilities and sent a clear warning to terror groups operating across the border.
As per media reports, Rafale jets hit nine terror camps in Pakistan on Wednesday (May 7) with ‘Scalp missiles’. It also claimed that hammer bombs were also used by the Indian Army forces on all nine targets of terrorists.
What is a HAMMER bomb?
The HAMMER, also known as the Armement Air-Sol Modulaire (AASM). It is guided air-to-surface munition developed by France. It is designed to excel in both close air support and deep strike operations. It entered service in 2007 with the French Air Force and Naval Aviation. It was also supplied to Ukraine, with over 600 kits planned for delivery.
How It Operates?
HAMMER operates as a modular weapon system that combines a standard unguided bomb with advanced enhancements, including:
Guidance Kits of INS/GPS for basic guidance, Imaging infrared (IIR) for improved accuracy and laser homing for engaging dynamic targets.
Propulsion System of a fuel rocket motor which extends its range and it can stand-off engagements from over 70 kilometers away.
It is fully functional in all weather conditions and can be deployed from low altitudes, improving the survivability of the aircraft. It is compatible with various fighter jets, including the Dassault Rafale, Mirage 2000D, F-16, Tejas, and MiG-29.
HAMMER brings precision in strikes with minimal collateral damage. The system’s stand-off capability makes safer engagements while maintaining effectiveness. It brings accuracy due to:
- SBU-38 (INS/GPS): ~10 meters CEP (Circular Error Probable).
- SBU-54 (Infrared): ~1 meter CEP, suited for fair weather.
- SBU-64 (Laser-guided): ~1 meter CEP, excels against moving targets in dynamic environments.
Variants of AASM HAMMER
- SBU-38:
- Guided by INS/GPS.
- Delivers ~10 meters CEP.
- Operates in all weather conditions.
- SBU-54:
- Features additional imaging infrared guidance.
- Achieves ~1 meter CEP.
- Effective for day/night missions in fair weather.
- SBU-64:
- Combines laser guidance with INS/GPS.
- Highly effective against moving targets.
- Offers precise targeting in fluid combat situations.
Bomb Sizes And Compatibility
HAMMER munitions are available in multiple configurations for different mission requirements:
- Weights: 125 kg, 250 kg, 500 kg, and 1,000 kg.
Compatible Bomb Bodies: Mk 82, BLU-111, and CBEMS/BANG.
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