Astra Missile Test Launch

Current Affairs National

Posted by newadmin on 2025-03-17 08:57:50 |

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The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) recently achieved a significant milestone with the successful test launch of the Astra missile from the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) AF MK1 prototype. Conducted off the coast of Chandipur, Odisha, this test demonstrated the missile’s precision and effectiveness, further strengthening India’s indigenous defence capabilities.

Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Astra is a Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) designed to engage targets at distances exceeding 100 kilometres. Equipped with advanced guidance and navigation systems, the missile ensures highly accurate target strikes. Already inducted into the Indian Air Force (IAF), the Astra enhances India’s air defence capabilities and is being integrated into the indigenous LCA Tejas and the Indian Navy’s Mig-29 in a phased manner.

During the recent test launch, the missile achieved a direct hit on a flying target, with all subsystems performing optimally and meeting mission objectives. This trial validated its advanced capabilities, following the maiden test from the LCA conducted in August 2023. The missile’s development has been a collaborative effort involving ADA, DRDO, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), and other key agencies. The project also received crucial support from the Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification (CEMILAC) and the Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance (DG-AQA).

Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missiles play a critical role in modern air combat, allowing fighter aircraft to engage enemy targets from distances beyond 20 nautical miles (37 kilometres). This capability provides a strategic advantage, enabling aircraft to neutralise threats while remaining outside enemy air defences.

With further trials planned to evaluate its performance, the Astra missile represents a significant step forward in India’s indigenous defence systems. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V. Kamat lauded the successful test, acknowledging the dedicated efforts of all teams involved in the Astra project.

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