Astra BVR missile with indigenous RF seeker test-fired
Why in the news
DRDO and the Indian Air Force carried out flight tests of the Astra beyond visual range air-to-air missile fitted with an indigenously developed RF seeker. The tests took place on 11 July 2025 and were reported on 12 July.
Key facts
- The missile tested is the Astra BVRAAM, with an indigenous radio frequency (RF) seeker.
- Two launches were made from a Su-30MKI off the coast of Odisha.
- The targets were high-speed unmanned aerial targets engaged at different ranges; both were reportedly destroyed.
- The trials were described as confirming the precision and reliability of the seeker.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Missile | Astra BVRAAM |
| Test date | 11 July 2025 |
| Platform | Su-30MKI |
| Location | Off the Odisha coast |
About Astra
Astra is developed by DRDO. The Mk-1 version has a range of about 110 km, while the Mk-2 is reported to reach 160 to 240 km depending on altitude. Mid-course guidance uses inertial navigation with datalink updates and the final phase uses active radar homing. It can be launched from the Su-30MKI, MiG-29K and Tejas.
Exam angle
- Remember: Astra is an air-to-air missile, not a surface-to-air one.
- The new feature is the indigenous RF seeker.
- Developer: DRDO; test partner: Indian Air Force.