SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is making significant strides in the development of its next-generation Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM), commonly referred to as the Astra MkIII. Building on the success of its predecessors, the Astra MkI and MkII, this new variant aims to enhance India’s air combat capabilities by incorporating cutting-edge technology and achieving longer engagement ranges.
The Astra MkIII introduces a ramjet engine, a propulsion system that provides sustained thrust over longer distances, enabling the missile to maintain high speeds and manoeuvrability during mid-course flight. DRDO has completed successful ground trials of the missile system and is now preparing for air trials using the Su-30MKI as the testbed platform.
Sources indicated idrw.org that the Astra MkIII will have two variants tailored to meet diverse operational requirements. A Standard Ramjet Variant Equipped with an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) seeker, allowing precise target tracking and coordination with AWACS and launch platforms via a two-way data link that Offers a range of over 300 km, making it effective against high-value aerial targets.
The second Variant likely will be a Booster-Enhanced Ramjet Variant that Includes an additional booster stage to achieve even greater ranges, targeting force multiplier-sized threats at extended distances. Enhanced range and speed come with trade-offs, such as increased weight, which limits compatibility to platforms with robust hardpoints like the Su-30MKI or potential future aircraft. Requires advanced radar capabilities on the launch platform for optimal performance.
To fully leverage the Astra MkIII’s capabilities, launch aircraft will need exceptional radar range for detection, tracking, and engagement, emphasizing the need for advanced avionics in the IAF’s fleet. The decision on which fighter jets will carry these missiles must consider not only weight and structural integrity but also the operational tactics that will be employed, potentially influencing the IAF’s acquisition and upgrade strategies.
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