The Indian Air Force (IAF) is pushing for a rapid acceleration in the development of longer-range missiles, responding to an expanding and sophisticated arsenal held by Pakistan. This strategic request comes in the wake of Operation Sindoor, which saw IAF aircraft conducting strikes over 200 kilometers (124 miles) into Pakistani territory in June.
During this four-day operation, the IAF utilized a variety of advanced weaponry, including indigenous technologies like the BrahMos missile, alongside French SCALP and Israeli Rampage and Crystal Maze air-to-ground missiles. Approximately three months following this operation, the IAF formally appealed to the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to prioritize the creation of air-to-air, air-to-ground, and surface-to-air missiles that can reach distances greater than 200 kilometers.
At the top of the IAF’s requirements list is an extended-range version of the Astra air-to-air missile. The baseline Astra Mark-1 has been active with the IAF since 2019, boasting a range of 110 kilometers (68 miles), while the more advanced Astra Mark-2 is currently undergoing trials and has a projected range of 160 kilometers (99 miles). Additionally, the IAF is considering the procurement of the Russian R-37 missile, which is believed to exceed a range of 200 kilometers.
In parallel to these missile development initiatives, the IAF has urged the DRDO to expedite Project Kusha, which is aimed at producing a long-range air and missile defense system. Moreover, discussions are ongoing regarding the potential acquisition of at least two more S-400 air defense squadrons from Russia, supplementing the five already in operation.
This call for enhanced missile capabilities follows reports that the IAF may have underestimated the range of China-made PL-15 missiles during a confrontation in May, leading to the loss of several IAF jets. Initial assessments put the PL-15’s range at about 150 kilometers (93 miles), significantly less than its actual reach, which has raised concerns within the IAF regarding operational preparedness and combat effectiveness.
The growing demand for advanced armaments underscores the IAF’s commitment to maintaining a strategic edge amid evolving regional threats, particularly from its neighbor to the west. The development of more sophisticated and longer-range missile systems is seen as critical to enhancing national security and operational readiness in potential future conflicts.
