SOURCE: IDRW.ORG
In a recent interview with idrw.org, a senior official from India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) revealed that the organization is examining a recovered Chinese PL-15E missile but dismissed claims of its technological superiority. The official asserted that the PL-15E, often touted by China as a cutting-edge beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile (BVR-AAM), is not as advanced as portrayed and lags behind India’s indigenous Astra missile systems.
“While we will study the PL-15E to understand its capabilities, there’s little to copy. It’s not the leap forward China would like the world to believe,” the official stated. He emphasized that India’s Astra MkII BVR-RAM (Beyond Visual Range – Radar Active Missile) and the upcoming Astra MkIII are significantly superior in performance, range, and technological sophistication compared to the PL-15E.
The DRDO’s confidence stems from the rapid progress of the Astra missile program. According to idrw.org, the Astra MkII has already commenced induction into the Indian Air Force (IAF), with full operational capability expected by 2026. The missile, designed for enhanced range and precision, is set to bolster the IAF’s air combat capabilities, equipping platforms like the Sukhoi Su-30 MKI and Tejas LCA. The Astra MkII features advanced radar homing and improved propulsion, enabling it to engage targets at extended ranges with high accuracy.
Meanwhile, the Astra MkIII, a more advanced variant, is gearing up for trials. The DRDO official confirmed that the missile is on track to enter production in the near future, positioning it as a cornerstone of India’s air defense arsenal. The Astra MkIII is expected to incorporate cutting-edge technologies, including enhanced range, dual-pulse rocket motors, and superior electronic countermeasures, making it a formidable competitor to global BVR missile systems.
The recovery of the PL-15E, reportedly an export variant of China’s PL-15 missile, has sparked interest in defense circles. However, the DRDO’s assessment suggests that the missile’s capabilities are overstated, potentially relying on outdated or less sophisticated technology compared to India’s homegrown systems. This aligns with India’s broader push for self-reliance in defense manufacturing under the “Make in India” initiative, with the Astra program serving as a flagship example of indigenous innovation.
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