As reported by NDTV on August 5, 2024, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has authorized the production of 200 Astra Mark 1 air-to-air missiles. This decision was made during a recent visit by IAF Deputy Chief Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit to Hyderabad. The clearance was granted to the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), marking a step forward in replacing all Russian-origin long-range air-to-air missiles of the IAF with indigenous solutions. Read full defense news at this link...
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| The Astra program began in the early 1990s, with the project officially sanctioned in 2004. Initial versions faced challenges, leading to multiple redesigns to address control issues and performance deficiencies. (Picture source: Indian MoD) |