The Indian Air Force (IAF) has authorised the production of 200 Astra air-to-air missiles by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) for use in its Su-30 and LCA Tejas fighter aircraft.
During a recent visit to Hyderabad, IAF Deputy Chief Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit granted clearance to DRDO, which oversees the development of the missiles, and BDL, responsible for their production, as per senior defence officials.
This program, which had been approved by the Defence Acquisition Council for both the IAF and the Indian Navy, initially planned for the production of 248 missiles for the 2022-23 period.
The Astra missile series is designed to strengthen the aerial combat prowess of the Indian Armed Forces. The Astra Mark 1 missile, already in service with the IAF and Navy, will soon be followed by the more advanced Astra Mark 2.
The first test of the Astra Mark 2, boasting a strike range of 130 kilometres, is anticipated in the coming months, with DRDO working on a specialised motor to extend its range.
The current Astra Mark 1 missile can hit targets up to 100 kilometres away, with the capability for further range enhancements.
The development of an indigenous air-to-air missile system began in 2001 when DRDO engaged with various stakeholders to create a missile capable of engaging targets beyond visual range.
Hyderabad’s Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) was designated as the lead lab for the project, and a dedicated task force was established to conduct preliminary studies and advance the initiative.
