Astra MK-2 AIR-to-AIR Missile to be inducted by end 2023
Recently Astra MK-2 was launched from ejector launcher of Su-30MKI, a method much more advanced than launching from rail launcher. With this the Developmental trials of Astra MK-2 has been completed and it will go for Limited Series Production.
The users both IAF and the Navy will then carry out Integration of Astra MK-2 on the various fighters and carry out few users trials. The Indian Navy MiG-29 K has already started work on its MiG29Ms.
Astra MK-2 is the new version of Astra MK-1 with better range and launched from an ejector. The Astra MK-2 has conventional dual pulse rocket motor with improved grain quality and with solid fuel.
It is longer in length as a result of which more quantity of fuel can be loaded resulting in better range. Thus Astra Mk2 missile easily exceeds the performance of the USA made AIM-120D AMRAAM & Chinese made PL-15. The missile’s exact range may be 200km+. It has been tested to 180 km.
Thus now IAF has an indigenous and a very capable BVR missile which was needed urgently.
Astra MK-2 shares most of the key features of its predecessor Astra MK-1 such as aerodynamics, design, smokeless propulsion, Ku band AESA seeker, etc,. so its development process has been very fast. Now work will be started on Mk3 version with range of 500km.
Astra MK-2 is likely to be inducted into IAF service by end of 2023 or Q1 2024 max as every system from design, body, dual pulse rocket motor, actuators, various sensors, warhead, instruments and Ku band AESA seeker has been validated and tested.
It will also come with improved high angle off boresight capability, improved ECCM system, will sport two way datalink (first for Indian missile) & an AESA radar which will improve the first kill probability by a significant margin.
Astra MK-1 already in Service is better than the Chinese PL-12 used by Pakistan and China. Astra MK-1 range is 110 km and speed is Mach 4.5 compared to PL-15’s range of 100 km and speed Mach 4. Even the Chinese PL-15 is 26 kg heavier than Astra MK-1. PAF operates PL15-E with 145 KM range, Chinese Airforce PL15 has a range more than 200 Km.
