Tests Of Astra BVR Missile From IAF Su-30MKI On Monday

The Indian Air Force will be carrying out series of tests of indigenously developed beyond visual range (BVR) air-to-air missile ‘Astra’ from Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter from Monday.

Defence sources told Indian Express that the missile will be fired from Sukhoi-30 MKI aircraft targeting a Pilotless Target Aircraft (PTA) at different altitudes from different angles over the Bay of Bengal to reconfirm the killing efficiency of the all-terrain and all-weather weapon system.

Three rounds of the missile have reportedly been planned, according to the report. Astra’s last testing on Wednesday was reportedly a failure after the missile nose-dived after it was fired from the aircraft and exploded on the sea beach causing enormous noise.

“The captive trials are aimed at establishing the compatibility of the missile’s electronics with the Su-30MKI avionics. Apart from Sukhoi, the missile can be integrated with Mirage-2000, MiG-29, Jaguar and Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA),” a defence official was quoted as saying.