National
Defence ministry to test Astra Mark 2 air-to-air missiles with 130 km strike range
By: TP News
Date: 4/16/2024 9:28:05 PM
New Delhi:In a significant development aimed at bolstering the firepower of the Indian Air Force's fighter aircraft, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is gearing up to conduct the inaugural test of the Astra Mark 2 air-to-air missile. This missile boasts a strike range of 130 km and has the capability to target adversaries beyond visual range.
The Astra 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 missiles, a predecessor to the Mark 2, have already been successfully inducted into both the Indian Air Force and the Navy.
Senior defence officials informed India Today that work is currently underway on the Astra Mark 2 missiles and the first test for this 130 km strike range missile is scheduled to take place in the coming months. DRDO is focusing on developing a special motor to extend the missile's range. The existing Astra Mark 1 missile has a range of up to 100 kilometres, with potential for further extension.
The journey towards developing an indigenous air-to-air missile system began in 2001 when 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.