Successful Test-Firing of ASTRA BVRAAM from LCA AF MK1 Marks Major Milestone in Indigenous Defence Development

During the test-firing, the ASTRA missile achieved a direct hit on a flying target, validating its advanced guidance and navigation systems.

In a major boost to India’s indigenous defence capabilities, the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) successfully conducted the test launch of the ASTRA Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) from the LCA AF MK1 prototype fighter aircraft. The test was carried out off the coast of Chandipur, Odisha, successfully demonstrating the missile’s precision strike capability.

During the test-firing, the ASTRA missile achieved a direct hit on a flying target, validating its advanced guidance and navigation systems. All onboard subsystems functioned flawlessly, meeting all mission parameters and objectives. Designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the ASTRA missile has the capability to engage aerial threats beyond 100 km with high accuracy. The missile is already operational with the Indian Air Force (IAF) and is a key component of India’s air defence strategy.

The successful test represents a crucial step toward the integration and induction of the LCA AF MK1A variant into active service. This achievement is the result of the collective efforts of a dedicated team comprising scientists, engineers, and technicians from ADA, DRDO, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), along with crucial support from the Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification (CEMILAC), Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance (DG-AQA), the Indian Air Force, and the test range team.

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh extended his congratulations to the teams involved in the successful trial, acknowledging their relentless commitment to advancing India’s defence technology. Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO, Dr. Samir V Kamat, also commended the efforts of all personnel and industry partners contributing to this significant achievement. Further trials are planned to assess and enhance the missile’s performance before full-scale operational deployment.

This milestone underscores India’s steady progress in strengthening its indigenous defence capabilities and reinforcing the combat readiness of its fighter aircraft fleet.