DRDO to Extend Astra Mark 2 Missile Range Beyond 200 km

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has announced plans to extend the range of the Astra Mark 2 air-to-air missile to over 200 kilometres, marking a significant step in India’s pursuit of indigenous beyond-visual-range (BVR) air combat capabilities.

Objective and Context

• The move aims to strengthen India’s aerial strike power and reduce dependency on imported weapon systems, particularly in the wake of the recent India–Pakistan war.
• The enhancement will significantly improve the engagement envelope of Indian fighter aircraft, enabling them to neutralize enemy targets at longer distances.

Incorporation of Advanced Features

• DRDO has reportedly integrated advanced features inspired by the Chinese PL-15 air-to-air missile into the Astra Mark 2 development programme.
• This decision follows a technical analysis of an unexploded PL-15E missile fired by a Pakistani jet during Operation Sindoor in May 2025.
• The PL-15E, with a range of 145 kilometres, was recovered intact near Hoshiarpur, Punjab, after failing to self-destruct — offering Indian defence scientists rare intelligence insights.

Technical Advancements and Collaborations

• The Astra Mark 2 builds upon the Astra Mark 1, which already boasts a range exceeding 100 kilometres and employs an advanced guidance and navigation system.
• Over 50 public and private organisations, including Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), are collaborating with DRDO on the missile’s design, testing, and production.
• The Mark 2 version will feature:
  • Extended range (200+ km)
  • Improved propulsion and radar seeker technology
  • Enhanced electronic counter-countermeasures (ECCM) capabilities

Strategic Significance

• The programme underscores India’s growing technological self-reliance in defence under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
• Once operational, the Astra Mark 2 will strengthen the Indian Air Force’s long-range strike capability, enhancing deterrence and operational flexibility against regional adversaries.