Context:
The Indian Air Force plans to equip MiG-29 fighter jets with the Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missile (ASRAAM) to enhance combat capability.
Key Highlights:
- About ASRAAM:
- A European-designed air-to-air missile developed by MBDA
- Used for short-range aerial combat (dogfights)
- Technical Features:
- Length: 2.9 m, Weight: 88 kg
- Equipped with high-explosive warhead
- Uses heat-seeking (infrared) guidance system
- Operates on fire-and-forget principle
- Performance Capabilities:
- Speed: Above Mach 3
- Range: >25 km
- Highly manoeuvrable, capable of extreme G-force turns
- Maintains high energy throughout flight
- Advanced Technology:
- Lock-On After Launch (LOAL) capability
- Enables engagement without initial target lock
- Ensures high accuracy in dynamic combat scenarios
- Integration:
- Already deployed on LCA Tejas and Jaguar aircraft
- Now being integrated into MiG-29 fleet
Relevant Prelims Points:
- Difference between short-range vs beyond visual range (BVR) missiles
- Fire-and-forget technology vs guided systems
- Role of infrared homing missiles
- Defence manufacturer: MBDA
- Aircraft platforms using ASRAAM in India
Relevant Mains Points:
- Importance of modern missile systems in air superiority
- Enhancing India’s defence preparedness and deterrence capability
- Role of indigenisation vs foreign collaboration in defence
- Strategic implications for regional security balance
- Way Forward:
- Increase indigenous missile development (DRDO)
- Expand integration across multiple fighter platforms
- Strengthen jointness between armed forces
- Enhance R&D and technology transfer mechanisms
UPSC Relevance:
- Prelims: Missile systems, defence technology
- Mains: GS III – Defence, Security, Technology