In a strategic move to strengthen the combat capabilities of the Indian Air Force (IAF), Dassault Aviation and the Indian Air Force are collaborating to integrate the Astra Mk1, a long-range air-to-air missile developed domestically, into the fleet of 36 Rafale aircraft. As IDRW reported on December 22, 2024, this project is expected to begin captive flight trials by mid-2025. Read more.
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| The integration of the Astra Mk1 into the Rafale will begin with captive flight trials to assess the missile's compatibility with the aircraft's hardpoints, aerodynamics, and system interactions (Picture source: Indian Air Forces) |