India Extends Astra Mark 2 Missile Range Beyond 200 km

India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has announced plans to extend the Astra Mark 2 air-to-air missile range to over 200 kilometres. This development follows recent aerial conflicts and aims to strengthen India’s indigenous beyond visual range (BVR) combat capabilities. The Defence Ministry is set to discuss acquiring around 700 of these missiles for integration with Sukhoi and Light Combat Aircraft fleets.

Extended Range and Strategic Importance

The Astra Mark 2 missile will have a range exceeding 200 kilometres, surpassing earlier targets of 160 kilometres. This increase places India among a select group of countries in the region with advanced long-range BVR missile technology. The extended range enables Indian fighter jets to engage enemy aircraft from greater distances, enhancing pilot safety and operational effectiveness.

Indigenous Development and Collaboration

The missile builds on the Astra Mark 1, which already features a range above 100 kilometres and advanced guidance systems. DRDO has worked with over 50 public and private organisations, including Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, to develop and produce the missile indigenously. This collaboration reflects India’s focus on self-reliance in defence technologies and reducing dependency on foreign suppliers.

Operational Experience and Lessons

During Operation Sindoor, India demonstrated its ability to strike Pakistani targets from stand-off distances. Indian forces successfully neutralised enemy aircraft, including F-16s and Chinese-made fighters, along with unmanned aerial vehicles. Pakistani counterattacks using PL-15 missiles did not affect Indian forces. This operation telld the need for effective long-range missile systems to maintain air superiority.

Integration with Fighter Fleets

The Defence Ministry plans to equip the Astra Mark 2 missiles with Sukhoi and Light Combat Aircraft fleets. This integration will enhance the striking power of Indian fighter jets. Pilots will gain the capability to detect and engage threats well beyond visual range, reducing risks during aerial combat. The move supports India’s broader strategic goal of securing its airspace against evolving regional threats.

Regional Security Implications

With the Astra Mark 2, India aims to maintain a technological edge over neighbouring countries. The missile’s extended range and precision will act as a deterrent against hostile air operations. It also signals India’s commitment to modernising its defence forces amid shifting geopolitical dynamics in South Asia and beyond.