Indian Air Force Approves Production Of Astra Mark 1 Missiles

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has given clearance to the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) to produce 200 Astra air-to-air missiles for its Su-3O and LCA Tejas fighter aircraft. The clearance was given to the DRDO and public sector firm BDL, during a recent visit by Indian Air Force Deputy Chief Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit to Hyderabad.

What is Astra Mark 1 Missile?

The Astra Mark 1 missiles are advanced air-to-air missiles developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

Key Features of Astra Mark 1 Missile

Astra Mark 1 Missile has the following features:-

• Advanced Guidance Systems: Equipped with advanced guidance systems, including an active radar seeker and infrared homing, to ensure accurate targeting and interception of enemy aircraft.
• Multi-Platform Capability: Compatible with multiple fighter aircraft, enhancing the versatility and effectiveness of the Indian Air Force and Indian Navy’s air combat operations.
• Combat Performance: Designed to operate in all weather conditions, the Astra Mark 1 is intended to improve air superiority by extending the range and capability of Indian fighter jets.
• Indigenous Development: Part of India’s broader strategy to develop indigenous defense technologies and reduce dependence on foreign military hardware.
• Future Upgrades: The Astra program includes ongoing development efforts for the Astra Mark 2, which aims to extend the missile’s range and enhance its capabilities further.

Aims of Astra Mark 1 Missile

The programme was cleared by the Defence Acquisition Council for the IAF and Indian Navy, under which 248 missiles were expected to be produced for both services in 2022-23. These series of air-to-air missiles are part of the Astra program, which aims to enhance the aerial combat capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces. The Astra Mark 1 missile, a predecessor to the Mark 2, has already been successfully inducted into both the IAF and the Navy.

About Astra Mark 2 missiles

Senior defence officials informed that work is currently underway on the Astra Mark 2 missiles and the first test of this 130 km strike range missile is scheduled to take place in the upcoming months. DRDO is focusing on developing a special motor to extend the missile’s range, they said. The existing Astra Mark 1 missile has a range of up to 100 kilometres, with the potential for further extension.

Beginning of an indigenous air-to-air missile system

The journey towards developing an indigenous air-to-air missile system began in 2001, when the DRDO initiated discussions with various stakeholders. The aim was to design and develop a missile system capable of engaging adversary targets beyond visual range. Hyderabad’s Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) was subsequently identified as the nodal lab for this project. A dedicated task force was formed to undertake preliminary studies and drive the project forward.