Source : IgMp Bureau
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| Computer Generated Image (CGI) of Astra-IR missile by Kuntal Biswas |
The Astra-IR missile might be ready for initial trials by the end of 2022 that will use the basic airframe of the Astra Mk 1 and will feature an Imaging Infrared Homing Seeker and will have a range of 50 kilometers but will have better maneuverability in the terminal phase.
The Astra-IR variant will have lock-on after launch feature which means the missile can be fired even before the seeker acquires the target at the launch acquisition range.
The DRDO has also taken up the development of a Close Combat air-to-air Missile (CCM) that will be a further development of the Astra-IR variant but it will be more agile and maneuverable to take out combat jets and fast-moving aerial threats at a range of 45 kilometers.
The developmental trials of the indigenous close Close Combat air-to-air Missile (CCM) will begin after 2025 that will replace the Russian R-73 and will supplement the European ASRAAM and Israeli Python-5.
After the completion of land-based Man Portable Defensive Missile System, the DRDO will take up development of 7 kilometers range MANPAD air-to-air missile variant that will be armed on attack helicopters or medium and high altitude class UAVs and will target hostile drones and helicopters.
