SOURCE: IDRW.ORG
The impending induction of India’s Astra Mk3, recently christened “Gandiva,” into the Indian Air Force (IAF) is poised to reshape the beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM) dynamics between India and Pakistan, according to Pakistani defence analyst Squadron Leader (Retd.) Fahad Masood. Speaking to a local defence forum in Islamabad , Masood cautioned that the Astra Mk3’s advanced capabilities could tilt the aerial balance in India’s favor, prompting the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) to explore counter-options, including the acquisition of Türkiye’s GÖKHAN and China’s PL-21 BVRAAMs.
Developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Astra Mk3 Gandiva is a ramjet-powered BVRAAM boasting a range of 340 kilometers under optimal conditions, outstripping its predecessors, the Astra Mk1 (80-110 km) and Mk2 (140-160 km). Powered by a solid fuel ducted ramjet (SFDR) system, it achieves speeds up to Mach 4.5 and features a lightweight design (220 kg), enabling integration with fighters like the Su-30 MKI and Tejas. Its high-altitude snap-up/down capability (±10 km) and active radar seeker make it a formidable weapon for engaging targets at standoff distances. Pakistani analysts, including Masood, view its induction—expected by 2027-28 following trials—as a direct challenge to the PAF’s current BVRAAM arsenal, primarily the AIM-120C AMRAAM (range 105-120 km) on its F-16s and the PL-12 (range 100 km) on its JF-17 Thunder jets.
“The Astra Mk3’s range and agility could neutralize our existing platforms before they even enter engagement zones,” Masood warned, noting that its 340 km range exceeds the PAF’s longest-range missile by over 200 km. “This isn’t just a technological leap; it’s a strategic shift. The IAF could dominate BVR engagements, forcing us to rethink our air defence posture.” He argued that India’s ability to strike Pakistani aircraft from beyond the Line of Control (LoC) or engage PAF jets patrolling the Arabian Sea would complicate Pakistan’s deterrence strategy, already strained by a smaller fleet of approximately 400 combat aircraft against India’s 600+.
In response, Masood suggested the PAF is eyeing two advanced BVRAAMs: Türkiye’s GÖKHAN and China’s PL-21. The GÖKHAN, developed by TÜB?TAK SAGE, is a ramjet-powered missile designed for Türkiye’s TF-X fighter, with an estimated range of 150-200 km and speeds exceeding Mach 4. Unveiled in concept in 2021, it promises high maneuverability and resistance to electronic countermeasures, though it remains in development with induction projected post-2030. Meanwhile, the PL-21, an evolution of China’s PL-15 (range 300 km), is speculated to reach 350-400 km with dual-pulse motor technology, offering the PAF a near-parity counter to the Astra Mk3. Integrated with the J-20 stealth fighter, the PL-21’s active radar and datalink capabilities could enhance the JF-17 Block III’s lethality, with deliveries potentially expedited given Pakistan’s close ties with China.
The BVRAAM race has regional implications. India’s Gandiva surpasses China’s PL-15 (300 km) and the U.S. AIM-174 (240 km), positioning the IAF as a top-tier air force. For Pakistan, lagging in range and stealth, the F-16 and JF-17 fleets risk obsolescence without upgrades.
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