New Delhi. India’s air power is entering a new phase. Indigenous defense research agency DRDO is working towards bringing into operational role two advanced air-to-air missiles, Astra Mk-III and STAR missile. The strategy of deploying these two together can give a multi-layered advantage to the Indian Air Force, especially when combined with light combat aircraft like HAL Tejas.
Astra Mk-III: long-range power
Astra Mk-III is India’s first missile based on solid-fuel ducted ramjet technology. It is capable of destroying large enemy targets at long ranges. In case of war, this missile can target enemy ships or high-value targets and destroy them from a distance.
STAR Missile: The Power of Speed
The STAR missile was earlier used only for practice, but is now being converted into a real combat missile. It is based on liquid-fuel ramjet technology. The ability to change its speed during flight makes it extremely effective in close and medium range engagements (55–175 km). STAR missile can do a surprise attack by dodging enemy radar and can also target enemy radar signals due to anti-radiation capability.
How will this ‘killer pair’ work?
In a possible war scenario, in the first phase the Astra Mk-III will exert pressure on the target from a distance. Only when the opponent is entangled in defense can STAR deliver a surprise attack with a different path and variable speed. It will be difficult for any air defense to face two different technologies and profiles simultaneously.
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