India's Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) is forging ahead with its ambitious Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) program, with the Astra MkIV now on the horizon. This new missile concept is being specifically designed to counter the advanced stealth aircraft expected to dominate the skies in the mid-to-late 2030s.
The DRDO's Astra program has already delivered the Astra MkI, a reliable BVRAAM currently operational within the Indian Air Force (IAF). Building on this success, the Astra MkII is nearing the end of its development phase, promising enhanced range and accuracy. However, the Astra MkIV represents a significant leap forward, targeting high-speed, stealthy platforms that pose a new level of challenge.
According to sources, the DRDO is in the early stages of defining the technologies required for the Astra MkIV. This will likely involve advanced guidance and propulsion systems to engage targets at greater speeds and altitudes, while also incorporating low-probability-of-intercept features to effectively target stealth aircraft.
The DRDO is actively studying cutting-edge technologies from similar programs worldwide, exploring concepts such as multi-mode seekers and dual-pulse rocket motors to ensure the Astra MkIV remains relevant and adaptable to evolving threats.
Developing a seeker capable of locking onto highly stealthy platforms is a key priority. This necessitates advancements in radar and infrared guidance technology. A multi-mode seeker, combining both radar and IR capabilities, is being considered to allow the missile to detect and track low-observable targets across various operational conditions.
Another critical area is the propulsion system. The Astra MkIV requires a system that provides both extended range and the ability to engage high-speed targets. This could involve new rocket motor technology or even ramjet propulsion, which enables sustained high speeds over longer distances.
The IAF is expected to provide detailed specifications and performance expectations for the Astra MkIV once the initial conceptual work is complete. While the missile remains in the preliminary study phase, the DRDO is aligning its research efforts to meet these anticipated requirements.
If development proceeds as planned, prototype testing for the Astra MkIV could begin by the mid-2030s, with potential induction into service by the late 2030s. This timeline aligns with the anticipated development of India's Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), a 5.5-generation stealth fighter that would be a prime candidate to carry this advanced missile system.
