The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has announced plans to extend the range of its Astra Mark 2 air-to-air missile to over 200 kilometres. The move aims to strengthen India’s indigenous capabilities in beyond visual range (BVR) combat and enhance the strike power of the Indian Air Force following the recent India-Pakistan conflict.

According to a report by ANI, the Defence Ministry is soon expected to take up a proposal to acquire around 700 Astra Mark 2 missiles. These will be fitted onto Sukhoi and Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) fleets, giving Indian pilots the ability to engage enemy aircraft from much longer distances.

Earlier plans had targeted a range of about 160 kilometres. Still, the upgraded version pushes that limit beyond 200 km, putting India among the few countries with such extended-range missile capabilities in the region.

The Astra Mark 2 is an upgraded version of the Astra Mark 1, which already has a range of over 100 kilometres and uses an advanced guidance and navigation system. The DRDO has worked with more than 50 public and private organisations, including Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), to develop the missile from design to production.

Why long-range missiles matter

Developing indigenous long-range air-to-air missiles has become a key focus for India as regional aerial threats continue to evolve. During Operation Sindoor, India showcased its ability to strike Pakistani airbases and terror camps from a safe distance, reducing risks to its pilots.

Reports said Pakistani aircraft, including F-16s and Chinese-made fighters, were destroyed both in the air and on the ground, along with several unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Pakistan’s attempt to retaliate using PL-15 missiles failed to make a major impact.

The experience, officials say, underlined the need for home-grown long-range missile systems to ensure air superiority in the region.

With the Astra Mark 2’s extended range, the Indian Air Force will be better equipped to engage enemy targets beyond visual range, keeping its fighter jets safely out of reach while maintaining control in aerial battles.