Hyd-based BDL signs Rs. 2,971 cr deal with Defence ministry to supply ASTRA MK-I missile

Hyderabad: The ministry of Defence on 31 May signed a contract with Hyderabad-based Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) for the supply of ASTRA MK-I beyond visual range (BVR) air-to-air missile (AAM) and associated equipment to the Indian Air Force and Navy at a cost of Rs. 2,971 crores.

Till now, the technology to manufacture missiles of this class indigenously was not available. ASTRA MK-I BVR AAM has been indigenously designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) based on the staff requirements issued by the Indian Air Force (IAF) catering for beyond visual range as well as close combat engagement reducing the dependency on foreign sources.

The air-to-air missile with BVR capability provides large stand off ranges to own fighter aircraft which can neutralise the adversary aircraft without exposing itself to the adversary's air defence measures.

ASTRA MK-I missile and all associated systems for its launch, ground handling, and testing have been developed by DRDO in coordination with the IAF. The missile, for which successful trials have already been undertaken by the IAF, is fully integrated on the Su 30 MK-I fighter aircraft and will be integrated with other fighter aircraft in a phased manner, including the light combat aircraft (Tejas). The Indian Navy will integrate the missile on the MiG 29K fighter aircraft.

The government said that the transfer of technology from DRDO to BDL for production of ASTRA MK-I missile and all associated systems has been completed and production at BDL is in progress. This project will act as a catalyst for the development of infrastructure and testing facilities at BDL. It will also create opportunities for several MSMEs in aerospace technology for a period of at least 25 years.