SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), in collaboration with the Indian Air Force (IAF), are looking to integrate Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missiles (ASRAAM) into the “Super Sukhoi” upgrade configuration for 84 Su-30MKI jets. This upgrade will replace the current Russian R-73 close-combat missiles in the Sukhoi fleet, enhancing the aircraft’s short-range air-to-air combat capabilities.
The ASRAAM, developed by the European defence manufacturer MBDA, is already operational on India’s Jaguar DARIN-III strike aircraft and the LCA Tejas Mk1A. Its successful deployment on these platforms has encouraged the IAF to push for further integration into the upcoming Tejas Mk2 and HAL’s CATS Loyal Wingman unmanned system, signaling a broader shift towards Western missile systems for close-combat engagements.
The ASRAAM stands out for its infrared guidance system, which provides “fire-and-forget” capability. It can lock onto a target within the pilot’s line of sight and even supports off-axis firing, allowing pilots to engage enemy aircraft without having to point their nose directly at the target—a key advantage in close-quarters dogfights. Weighing just 88 kilograms and boasting a range of over 25 kilometres, the ASRAAM combines lightness with high performance, offering improved manoeuvrability and lethality over older systems like the R-73.
This missile’s integration into the Su-30MKI fleet under the Super Sukhoi program is expected to significantly boost the platform’s combat effectiveness. The Super Sukhoi upgrade aims to modernize the aircraft with advanced avionics, new radars, and improved weapons systems, ensuring that the Su-30MKI remains a formidable multi-role fighter in the IAF’s arsenal.
Incorporating the ASRAAM into the upgraded Su-30MKI fleet, as well as future platforms like the Tejas Mk2 and CATS Loyal Wingman, aligns with India’s broader strategic goal of enhancing indigenization while also acquiring cutting-edge technologies from global defence partners. With BDL and HAL leading the integration efforts, India continues to strengthen its aerial combat capabilities and ensure its aircraft are equipped with modern, versatile weaponry suited for 21st-century air combat.
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