NEW DELHI: The indigenous Tejas LCA AF MK1 successfully test-fired the homegrown ASTRA Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) off the coast of Chandipur, Odisha, on March 12. The milestone is expected to significantly boost the induction prospects of the Tejas LCA AF MK1A variant.
The test, conducted by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), showcased the ASTRA missile achieving a direct hit on a flying target, underscoring its precision and reliability. The missile’s subsystems functioned flawlessly, meeting all mission parameters and objectives.
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Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the ASTRA BVRAAM is designed to engage aerial targets beyond 100 km. Equipped with cutting-edge guidance and navigation systems, the missile offers enhanced accuracy and precision in neutralizing airborne threats. The ASTRA missile has already been inducted into the Indian Air Force (IAF), further strengthening India’s indigenous defense capabilities.
The Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) program was initiated in the 1980s to develop an indigenous fighter jet for the Indian Air Force to replace its aging fleet of MiG-21 aircraft. The LCA AF MK1 variant is a lightweight, multi-role supersonic fighter developed by HAL with advanced avionics, superior aerodynamics, and robust combat capabilities. The upcoming MK1A variant is set to include enhanced electronic warfare systems, better maintainability, and advanced radar capabilities to further improve its combat readiness.
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The ASTRA missile, India’s first indigenous air-to-air missile, has undergone multiple successful trials since its development phase began in the early 2000s. Its integration with the Tejas platform marks a strategic enhancement in Indiaโs aerial warfare capabilities, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to self-reliance in defense production under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.
The successful trial marks a key milestone in the development and induction journey of the Tejas LCA AF MK1A variant. The achievement reflects the coordinated efforts of scientists, engineers, and technicians from ADA, DRDO, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), along with support from CEMILAC, DG-AQA, IAF, and the test range team.
Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh congratulated the teams involved in the successful trial, lauding their dedication and expertise. Additionally, Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, Dr. Samir V Kamat, commended the collaborative efforts of scientists, engineers, and technicians from various organizations and industry partners.
With further trials planned for performance evaluation, this achievement marks a significant step towards strengthening India’s air defense capabilities through indigenous innovation.
