Tejas Mk1A Jet to Undergo Astra Mk1 BVR Missile Test Firing With AESA Radar Within Next 15 Days, HAL Confirms

India's domestically-produced Tejas Mk1A fighter jet is set to undergo a crucial test within the next 15 days, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) confirmed. The test will involve firing the Astra Mk1 Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) while utilizing the aircraft's new, advanced radar system.This confirmation was made by HAL Chairman, D.K. Sunil, on February 18, 2025.

The upcoming test represents a vital step towards full certification and operational deployment of the Tejas Mk1A, an upgraded version of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA). The test will specifically evaluate the Astra Mk1 missile's performance when guided by the Tejas Mk1A's new ELTA ELM-2052 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar. This AESA radar is a significant upgrade from the older ELM-2032 radar used on previous Tejas models.

The ELTA ELM-2052 AESA radar offers significantly improved capabilities in target detection, tracking, and engagement. Unlike traditional mechanically scanned radars, AESA radars use electronic scanning to rapidly switch between multiple targets, providing the pilot with a more comprehensive view of the airspace and allowing for quicker reaction times.

This technological advancement is crucial for the Indian Air Force (IAF) to maintain air superiority against modern aerial threats, such as stealth aircraft, drones, and long-range missiles, particularly in the context of potential challenges from neighboring countries like China and Pakistan. The ELM-2052 is produced by ELTA Systems, a subsidiary of Israel Aerospace Industries.

The integration of the new AESA radar has necessitated a thorough re-evaluation of existing systems, including the Astra Mk1 missile. The IAF has stressed the importance of confirming the missile's reliability and accuracy with the new radar to ensure its effectiveness in combat situations. While this has led to some delays in the aircraft's delivery, HAL has expressed confidence that the upcoming test will lead to the Tejas Mk1A's final certification.

The Astra Mk1 is an indigenously developed all-weather, active radar homing air-to-air missile, designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). According to the DRDO, it is capable of engaging targets at various ranges, with a reported maximum range exceeding 80 kilometers in head-on mode.

A key requirement for the IAF is the ability to deploy the certified Tejas Mk1A at forward airbases along India's borders, particularly in the western and northern regions. These locations, often situated in demanding terrain and closer to potential conflict zones, require aircraft with high performance, rapid response capabilities, and advanced weaponry.

The combination of the Astra Mk1's long-range engagement potential and the AESA radar's improved tracking makes the Tejas Mk1A a strategic asset for safeguarding Indian airspace in these critical areas.

 

[AJS]

So, contrary to what HAL has been leading us to believe, the delay in the delivery of the aircraft is not due to the delay in supply of engines by GE, but that important steps like the integration of weapons such as Astra is yet to happen. No wonder the IAF chief lambasted them in public. What a shame that a big company like HAL keeps slipping up on its commitments, tries to mislead the public and gets publicly humiliated.

 

[sanket]

That's very good news, before arriving much delayed GE-404 engine.

 

[Sandeep]

India needs to certify the technology and weapons on our jets urgently. Also the Astra MK1 only has a range of about 100km which isn’t long enough. That’s why it’s important that we install and integrate the Astra MK2 and MK3.

They still need to test the Rudram MK1-3 series of missiles as well which will take time. Then we have our Sudarshan LGB, HSLD, Glide bombs, PGB which should have all been done by now. Still a long way to go before it’s completely capable as a multi role frontline fighter.