The Indian Navy is fast-tracking the integration of the indigenous Astra Mk2 Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) on its carrier-based fighter jets. This long-range missile will arm both the existing MiG-29K squadrons and the upcoming fleet of 26 Rafale M fighters, greatly enhancing their combat effectiveness.
Advanced Indigenous Weapon System
Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Astra Mk2 is a cutting-edge missile with an operational range exceeding 160 kilometres. It incorporates a sophisticated seeker for precise targeting and a dual-pulse rocket motor, enabling it to engage highly agile targets at extreme distances. This positions it as a direct counter to long-range missiles used by regional adversaries, such as China’s PL-15 and Pakistani variants.
Integration on MiG-29K Fighters
For the MiG-29K fleet operating from INS Vikramaditya, integration is underway. Engineers are adapting the missile to the aircraft’s existing Zhuk-ME radar system. Weapon firing trials are expected within a year, with full operational deployment on the MiG-29K anticipated by mid-2026, subject to successful evaluations.
Rafale M Fighters and Future Naval Fleet
The Astra Mk2 will also equip the Navy’s 26 new Rafale M jets, part of a $7.5 billion deal signed in April 2025. These aircraft, scheduled for delivery from 2029, will operate from INS Vikrant and other future carriers. Their Thales RBE2-AA AESA radar systems are designed to fully exploit the missile’s long-range capabilities, ensuring the fleet is prepared for future threats.
Alignment with Indian Air Force Upgrades
This naval modernisation mirrors efforts by the Indian Air Force, which is integrating the Astra missile family onto its 36 Rafale fighters to replace imported French MICA missiles. While the MICA has an 80 km range and is now insufficient against modern threats, the Astra Mk1 with a 90–110 km range is already operational on Su-30MKI and Tejas aircraft. The Astra Mk2 is expected to be integrated on IAF Rafales around 2026–2027.
Strategic Advantages and Future Prospects
Using indigenous missiles is more cost-effective than acquiring upgraded foreign options and strengthens India’s domestic defence sector. Collaboration with Dassault Aviation on software modifications also enables the potential deployment of other Indian-made weapons on Rafale jets, including the Rudram-1 anti-radiation missile, capable of neutralising enemy air defence systems.
