Astra Missile with Indigenous RF Seeker Successfully Flight-Tested by DRDO, IAF

\In a significant leap for India’s indigenous defence capabilities, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Air Force (IAF) successfully conducted flight-tests of the Astra Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM), now equipped with a fully indigenous Radio Frequency (RF) seeker. The test took place on July 11, 2025, off the coast of Odisha, and marks a critical advancement in India’s journey towards self-reliance in high-end missile technology.

The Astra missile was launched from the Su-30 Mk-I platform, a frontline multirole fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force. Two test firings were executed during the exercise, each targeting high-speed unmanned aerial vehicles simulating enemy aircraft under varied range, target angle, and launch conditions. The missile scored direct hits in both instances, demonstrating pin-point accuracy and the operational reliability of the indigenous seeker.

Indigenous RF Seeker: A Game-Changer in Missile Autonomy

At the heart of this breakthrough lies the indigenous RF seeker, a sophisticated radar component that allows the missile to detect, track, and home in on its target with precision. Designed and developed by DRDO scientists, this seeker is a culmination of years of dedicated research in microwave electronics, radar technologies, and guidance systems.

The successful performance of the seeker during the trials is of strategic importance, as it eliminates dependency on foreign sources for critical missile components. It also paves the way for incorporating the seeker into a broader range of air-to-air and surface-to-air missile systems currently in development.

DRDO confirmed that all subsystems, including the RF seeker, propulsion, navigation, and control mechanisms, performed flawlessly. Flight telemetry and target engagement data were recorded by tracking instruments deployed by the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, validating the weapon system’s performance across all parameters.

Astra Missile: Strengthening India’s Air Superiority

The Astra BVRAAM is India’s first fully indigenous air-to-air missile capable of engaging and destroying enemy aircraft at beyond visual range distances exceeding 100 kilometres. It is designed to be launched from multiple fighter aircraft platforms and is currently integrated with the Su-30 MKI. Future versions are planned for integration with the LCA Tejas, MiG-29, and Rafale.

Key features of the Astra include:

• Active Radar Homing with the RF Seeker

• High-Energy Solid Propellant Motor

• Smokeless Propulsion for low detectability

• High Maneuverability for intercepting fast-moving targets

• Advanced Guidance Systems with mid-course updates and terminal homing

With its proven capabilities, Astra will provide the Indian Air Force a crucial edge in both defensive and offensive air combat scenarios, enabling it to engage threats at long distances before enemy aircraft can come within visual or strike range.

Industry Collaboration and Atmanirbhar Bharat Boost

The Astra missile project is a shining example of collaborative success between DRDO and Indian industry. Over 50 public and private sector companies, including Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), have contributed to the development and manufacturing of the system. Components for the missile — including propulsion systems, seekers, electronics, and subsystems — have been sourced and assembled domestically.

This accomplishment is directly aligned with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative, which seeks to transform India into a hub for indigenous defence production and reduce reliance on imported weapon systems.

Leadership Commendations

The successful trial of the Astra missile with the indigenous RF seeker has drawn high praise from the country’s top defence leadership.

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh congratulated the DRDO, IAF, and associated industries, stating:

“The successful testing of the Astra missile with an indigenous seeker is a major milestone in our journey towards self-reliance in critical defence technology. It is a proud moment for the nation and a testament to the capabilities of our scientific and defence communities.”

Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, also expressed pride in the achievement:

“This test not only demonstrates technological prowess but reflects the integrated strength of India’s R&D ecosystem. I commend all the scientists, engineers, and support teams who worked tirelessly to realise this mission.”

Strategic Impact and Future Outlook

The success of Astra with an Indian RF seeker strengthens the strategic capability of the IAF, especially in modern aerial combat where first-shot capability and long-range engagement can determine air dominance. The missile will also serve as a foundation for the development of more advanced variants, including next-generation Astra Mk-II and Mk-III, which will feature longer ranges and dual-mode guidance systems.

Moreover, with a battle-proven, indigenous air-to-air missile system, India enters an elite group of nations with this technological capability, opening up future avenues for defence exports and international collaborations.

As India continues to push forward in indigenous missile development, the Astra programme stands as a beacon of innovation, resilience, and strategic self-sufficiency.