DRDO to test Astra Mark 1 BVRAAM with a new upgraded AESA seeker

Source : Indian Defence Updates (IDU)

An artistic representation of Astra Mk-1 BVRAAM launched by an IAF Sukhoi Su-30MKI

The Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) plans to start the trials of a new version Astra Mark 1 beyond visual range air-to-air missile with an upgraded seeker that will improve its performance and also lower its weight by a small margin.

The fabrication of the Astra Mark 1 missile with the new AESA radar seeker has already started fabrication that will start testing in 2023 and it will be ready for production by end of 2024.

An AESA seeker-equipped missile is much superior as it can scan and acquire targets much faster. The AESA seekers are also more compact, lighter and are considerably more reliable.

Reduction of overall weight may increase its officially stated range of 110km beyond 120-130km.