SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
In a significant step toward enhancing India’s indigenous defense capabilities, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is gearing up for the first live firing test of the Astra Mk1 Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) from the Tejas Mk1A platform, scheduled for early August 2025. HAL Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) DK Sunil confirmed this milestone, highlighting the progress in integrating advanced weaponry with the upgraded Tejas Mk1A, a cornerstone of India’s Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) program.
The Astra Mk1, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has already proven its mettle in combat scenarios, having been successfully test-fired from the earlier Tejas Mk1 variant equipped with the ELTA Systems Ltd.’s ELM-2032 Multi-Mode Fire Control Radar (FCR).
However, the Tejas Mk1A introduces significant upgrades, including the advanced ELM-2052 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Fire Control Radar, also designed by ELTA Systems Ltd., and a new Digital Flight Control Computer (DFCC). These enhancements necessitate revalidation and recalibration of all major air-to-air missiles, including the Astra Mk1, to ensure seamless integration and optimal performance with the new radar and avionics systems.
The ELM-2052 AESA radar, a key feature of the Tejas Mk1A, offers superior capabilities over its predecessor, including enhanced detection range, multi-target tracking, and greater resistance to electronic countermeasures. These attributes are critical for modern air combat, enabling the Tejas Mk1A to engage aerial threats with greater precision and situational awareness.
The upcoming test firing in August will provide crucial data on the Astra Mk1’s performance when guided by the ELM-2052 radar, marking a pivotal step toward full certification and operational deployment of the Tejas Mk1A.DK Sunil emphasized that this test is one of the final hurdles before the Tejas Mk1A can be fully certified for operational use by the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The successful integration of the Astra Mk1 with the Tejas Mk1A will enhance the aircraft’s air superiority capabilities, positioning it as a formidable asset for the IAF, particularly at forward airbases along India’s borders. The Astra Mk1, with a range of over 100 km and advanced guidance systems, is designed to neutralize airborne threats with high precision, even in challenging electronic countermeasures environments.
The Tejas Mk1A program has faced challenges, including delays in engine deliveries and radar integration. Despite these hurdles, HAL remains committed to delivering 12 Tejas Mk1A aircraft in 2025, with the first aircraft set to roll out from its Nashik production line by the end of July.
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