CHANDIPUR, Odisha – July 12: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted a test launch of the ‘Astra’ missile, an indigenously developed air-to-air missile designed to engage high-speed aerial targets. This achievement is a significant boost for the Indian Air Force (IAF), providing an effective system to neutralize unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in the air.
The Astra, classified as a Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM), was tested off the coast of Chandipur in Odisha. The test was conducted with the support of the Indian Air Force. DRDO confirmed that the Astra successfully intercepted and destroyed the unmanned aerial target.
The missile was launched from a platform simulating a Sukhoi 30 MKI aircraft. The successful trial of Astra significantly enhances India’s air defence capabilities. DRDO further stated that the Astra is equipped with an indigenous Radio Frequency (RF) seeker and has been designed to engage aerial targets at ranges exceeding 100 kilometers.
The successful test was a collaborative effort involving various organizations, including DRDO, the Indian Air Force, the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification (CEMILAC), the Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance (DGAQA), and the test range team. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded all the teams involved in the mission for their remarkable achievement.
