Why in news?
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has begun work on the Astra Mark II, an indigenous beyond‑visual‑range air‑to‑air missile designed to engage targets beyond 200 km. The project aims to provide the Indian Air Force (IAF) with a longer‑reach alternative to imported missiles and builds on the success of the Astra Mk‑I.
Background
India’s first home‑grown BVR missile, the Astra Mk‑I, has a range of about 100 km and is already integrated on Su‑30MKI fighters and being tested on LCA Tejas. More than 50 public and private industries contributed to its development. Encouraged by Mk‑I’s success, DRDO is now developing the Astra Mk‑II (also called Astra Mk‑2) to provide extended reach and improved performance.
Key features of Astra Mk‑II
- Extended range: Designed to engage targets at 150 – 200 km, with some reports suggesting it may exceed 200 km. This more than doubles the reach of the Mk‑I.
- Dual‑pulse motor: Unlike the single‑pulse Mk‑I, the Mk‑II uses a dual‑pulse solid rocket motor. The second pulse ignites during the terminal phase, maintaining high speed and manoeuvrability against evasive targets.
- Improved design: The missile has a larger diameter (about 190 mm) and weighs around 175 kg. It can reach speeds of about Mach 4.5 and manoeuvre at high G‑forces.
- Indigenous seeker: An advanced radio‑frequency seeker developed by DRDO improves guidance accuracy and resistance to electronic counter‑measures.
- Platform integration: The missile will equip Su‑30MKI and Tejas fighters. The IAF plans to procure roughly 700 missiles, signalling strong support for indigenous weapons.
Significance
- Enhanced air superiority: Longer reach allows pilots to engage adversaries before they can fire their own missiles, providing a “first‑shot, first‑kill” advantage.
- Self‑reliance: Developing indigenous BVR missiles reduces dependence on imports and aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
- Export potential: A successful Mk‑II could be offered to friendly countries, boosting defence exports and showcasing Indian technology.
Conclusion
The Astra Mk‑II reflects India’s ambition to master advanced missile technology. By adopting dual‑pulse propulsion and indigenous seekers, DRDO aims to deliver a world‑class weapon. Rigorous testing and integration lie ahead, but the missile holds promise for strengthening India’s air‑defence capabilities.
Source: Indian Defence News