India signs first export deal for ASTRA air-to-air missiles with Indonesia
India and Indonesia have signed a landmark deal for the supply of ASTRA Mk 1 beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles (BVRAAM), marking India's first export of these indigenously developed missiles. The agreement was announced on Tuesday as part of broader strategic cooperation between the two nations.
The ASTRA missiles will arm Indonesia's fleet of Su-30 fighter jets. The deal also includes the sale of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, technology transfers, and cooperation on critical mineral extraction and maritime security.
Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the ASTRA missile family is designed for the Indian Air Force and Navy. Beyond-visual-range missiles can engage targets beyond 37 kilometres (20 nautical miles).
The ASTRA Mk 1 has a range of 80 to 110 kilometres, can reach altitudes up to 20 kilometres, and achieves a speed of Mach 4.5. It features inertial guidance, mid-course updates, and terminal active radar homing. The missile is currently being integrated with India's Su-30 MKI fleet and is planned for use on the Tejas Mk 1A and Rafale jets.
A more advanced variant, the ASTRA Mk 2, boasts an enhanced range of 200 kilometres and uses a dual-pulse solid rocket motor for better energy conservation and evasion resistance. The Defence Acquisition Council granted Acceptance of Necessity for this variant in December last year, and it is still undergoing testing.
The ASTRA Mk 3, named Gandiva, is under development with a range exceeding 350 kilometres, powered by a Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet engine that provides continuous thrust.
The ASTRA missile is seen as a counter to China's PL-15 missile used by Pakistan and China. The Indian Air Force aims to reduce dependence on imported missiles like the Meteor and R-77, boosting self-reliance through the ASTRA programme.
