Astra BVR missile test fired off Odisha coast
'The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Air Force (IAF) successfully conducted the flight-test of indigenous beyond visual range air-to-air missile 'Astra' equipped with indigenous radio frequency seeker from Su-30 Mk-I platform,' the defence ministry said. Two launches were carried out against high-speed unmanned aerial targets at different ranges, target aspects and launch platform conditions, it said.
'In both the cases, the missiles destroyed the targets with pin-point accuracy,' the ministry said in a statement. It said all subsystems performed as per expectations including the radio frequency seeker which was designed and developed by the DRDO.
'The flawless performance of the Astra weapon system was validated through flight data captured by range tracking instruments deployed by Integrated Test Range, Chandipur,' it added.
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First Post
2 hours ago
- First Post
Directed Energy Weapons: Why India must take the lead
Directed Energy Weapons offer advantages such as high speed, precision, and the potential for lower cost per shot compared to traditional weapons–the future of weaponry lies in DEWs read more India successfully tested the Mk-II (A) Laser-Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) this April at the National Open Air Range (NOAR) in Kurnool. The 30 kW (kilowatt) laser weapon designed to neutralise drones, UAVs, and other aerial threats puts India in a select group of nations with this capability. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) trial demonstrated the system's ability to disable surveillance sensors and cause structural damage to drones. DEWs are a type of ranged weapon that use concentrated energy, rather than physical projectiles, to damage or disable targets. This energy can be in the form of lasers, microwaves, or particle beams. DEWs offer advantages such as high speed, precision, and the potential for lower cost per shot compared to traditional weapons, but they also pose challenges related to atmospheric conditions and potential long-term health effects. The world's leading defence companies are working towards DEWs. DEW could also use a beam of sound for crowd control and other policing functions. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Directed Energy Weapons DEWs emit highly focused electromagnetic energy, which is directed at the target, causing damage by heating, melting, or disrupting electronic systems. The specific type of energy used determines the wavelength and how effectively it can penetrate different materials. High-Energy Lasers (HEL) can be continuous or pulsed, delivering power outputs as low as 1 kW. Their precision allows them to target and melt metal, plastic, and other materials. They can be used to destroy or disable drones, missiles, and other airborne threats, as well as to damage or destroy ground-based targets. Millimetre Wave Weapons (MWW) operate in the 1 to 10-millimetre wavelength range, delivering more than 1 kilowatt of power. They can affect multiple targets simultaneously due to their broader beam. High-Power Microwaves (HPM) generate microwaves with longer wavelengths than lasers or millimetre waves. They're capable of producing around 100 megawatts of power and can disrupt multiple targets within their larger beam area and can disrupt or disable electronic systems, including those in vehicles, aircraft, and communication systems. Particle Beam Weapons (PBW), which are still under development, could potentially be used to damage or destroy targets at much greater ranges. DEW Advantages Advantages of DEWs include action at the speed of light, allowing for near-instantaneous engagement of targets. DEWs are very precise and can be directed with high accuracy, minimising collateral damage. DEWs are highly cost-effective and potentially much less expensive per shot than traditional weapons. DEWs can continue to fire as long as they have a power source, unlike traditional weapons with limited ammunition. DEWs can be used discreetly; radiation does not generate sound and is invisible if outside the visible spectrum. Light is, for practical purposes, unaffected by gravity and wind, giving it an almost perfectly flat trajectory. This makes aim much more precise and extends the range to line-of-sight, limited only by beam diffraction and spread and absorption or scattering by intervening atmospheric contents. Lasers travel at light speed and have a long range, making them suitable for use in space warfare. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD DEWs offer a spectrum of effects from nonlethal to lethal that can be influenced by factors such as exposure time, distance, and target area. Moreover, they can be employed in a graduated manner. Nonlethal responses include temporarily disabling electronic systems or preventing access to specific physical areas or systems, while degradation involves reducing the effectiveness of enemy sensors or electronics. Lethal responses entail destroying or severely damaging targets by focusing energy to melt or incapacitate critical components. Unlike traditional munitions, DEWs can offer benefits such as temporary and reversible effects. They can degrade or disable electronic systems without completely destroying them. DEWs are currently moving from the research and development phase to the practical deployment phase. Many countries are investing in DEW technology, and the market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. DEW Challenges and Limitations Adverse weather (fog, rain, dust) can interfere with laser beams and reduce their effectiveness. DEWs can lose effectiveness over longer distances due to atmospheric absorption and scattering. Opposing forces can develop countermeasures to deflect or disrupt DEWs. DEWs could potentially cause unintended harm to their own personnel or equipment, and their long-term health effects are not fully understood. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Taking DEWs from development to operational deployment presents challenges. Operationally, wide-beam DEWs can affect both friendly and enemy assets within the area of impact. They may also struggle against well-shielded targets or in environments where line-of-sight is obstructed. Additionally, international norms and regulations related to DEWs are in their infancy and do not offer a clear framework by which to mitigate the risks of their use. Furthermore, there are open-ended questions over the ability of existing industrial supply chains to produce DEW capabilities at scale. Practical Military Applications DEWs offer practical air and surface defence applications. Specifically, they are best oriented to counter slower-moving and swarm threats such as drones, rockets, artillery, and mortars by disrupting or destroying their electronic components and guidance systems. DEWs are frequently cited as having potential for missile defence, including against ICBMs, but the technological challenges to such applications are currently prohibitive. The US Department of Defence claims that DEWs have the potential to counter slower-moving missile threats such as anti-ship and land-attack cruise missiles, the basic logic being that DEWs are a lower-cost way to defeat less advanced aerial threats that would allow more expensive interceptors to be saved for the faster and more troublesome ballistic threats that DEWs cannot reliably engage. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD It's also possible that DEW capabilities could be used against enemy surface boats and autonomous maritime vehicles, as well as adversarial intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities. DEW will be increasingly used to blind and destroy satellites. Leading Global Players in DEW In the United States, the Pentagon, DARPA, and the service-specific military research laboratories are all researching DEWs to counter ballistic missiles, hypersonic cruise missiles, and hypersonic glide vehicles. These systems of missile defence have already begun getting operational. China, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Russia, India, and Israel are also developing military-grade DEWs, while Iran and Turkey claim to have them in active service. Some of the leading global private players in defence are involved in the DEW market. These include Lockheed Martin, Raytheon Technologies, and Northrop Grumman, with significant contributions from Boeing, BAE Systems, and others. These companies are actively involved in research, development, and deployment of various DEW technologies, including lasers and high-power microwaves, for defence applications. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Lockheed Martin is particularly interested in laser weapon systems for defence against various threats. Raytheon Technologies (now RTX) is known for its High Energy Laser Weapon System (HELWS), deployed in multiple countries. Northrop Grumman focuses on solid-state laser technology and has developed a 500-kilowatt laser system. The Boeing Company develops compact and mobile DEW systems, like the Compact Laser Weapon System (CLWS). BAE Systems is a major defence contractor with expertise in various DEW technologies. L3Harris Technologies is a key supplier of components for DEW systems. Leonardo S.p.A, a global leader in aerospace, defence, and security, has expertise in high-energy laser technologies. Other significant players include Germany's Rheinmetall AG, involved in the development of DEWs. French multinational Thales Group has a presence in the DEW market. Israel's Rafael Advanced Defence Systems Ltd is a significant player. Major Indian Companies DRDO, India's primary defence research organisation, is actively developing DEWs. Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) are major players in India's DEW market. Laser Science and Technology Centre (LASTEC) is an Indian research centre focusing on laser technology for defence. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD These companies are actively involved in research, development, and deployment of various DEW technologies, including lasers and high-power microwaves, for defence applications. The market is seeing increased investment and collaboration between these companies to develop advanced DEW systems for various applications, including countering drones, missiles, and other threats. Simultaneously, the private sector is also developing laser and high-power microwave-based air defence and counter-drone systems by companies like Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), Adani Defence, Tonbo Imaging, Big Bang Boom Solutions, and Paras Defence. DRDO's DEW Programme The Mk-II (A) 'Shahastra Shakti' is a vehicle-mounted laser DEW system. At the heart of the Mk-II (A) is a 30-kilowatt high-energy laser. During trials, it demonstrated the ability to engage lightweight helicopters and long-endurance UAVs at distances of up to 3.5 kilometres. It showcased its entire spectrum of capability by engaging fixed-wing drones at long range, thwarting a multiple drone attack, and destroying enemy surveillance sensors and antennae. It is evolving into the most potent counter-drone system and is designed for flexible deployment from ground vehicles or naval vessels and can be transported by air, sea, or road. DRDO intends to operationally field the Mk-II (A) by 2027. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The prototype of the Mk-II (A) DEW system has been under a prolonged development of DRDO at the Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences (CHESS), Hyderabad, along with Electronics & Radar Development Establishment (LRDE), Instruments Research & Development Establishment (IRDE), Defence Electronics Research Laboratory (DLRL), and Defence Laboratory (DL) Jodhpur, in harnessing the high power of laser. The critical subsystems along with components are designed and developed indigenously by CHESS, other DRDO laboratories, academic institutions, and more than 15 Indian industries. The cost of firing it for a few seconds is equivalent to the cost of a couple of litres of petrol. All three Indian armed forces are already using the earlier version of DEW Mk-I as part of their air-defence capabilities. The new system is capable of engaging aerial targets at greater range and, therefore, a significant step in Atmanirbharta. This landmark achievement will also act as the cornerstone for all the future development of high-power DEWs. Its success puts India in the exclusive and limited club of the global powers who possess the high-power laser DEW. Strategic Defence Initiative In the 1980s, US President Ronald Reagan proposed the Strategic Defence Initiative (SDI) programme, which was nicknamed Star Wars. It suggested that lasers, perhaps space-based X-ray lasers, could destroy ICBMs in flight. Several DEWs were examined by the SDI Organisation for potential use in missile defence. In July 1989, the accelerator was launched from White Sands Missile Range as part of the Beam Experiment Aboard Rocket (BEAR) project, reaching an altitude of 200 kilometres and operating successfully in space before being recovered intact after re-entry. No known weapon system utilising this technology has been deployed. Israel's Iron Beam Israel is developing many DEWs, including the Iron Beam laser system, as part of its multi-tiered missile defence strategy. These systems are designed to complement existing missile defence technologies like the Iron Dome. It is being jointly developed by the Israel Missile Defence Organisation (IMDO) and the US Missile Defence Agency (MDA). The Iron Beam, developed by Rafael Advanced Defence Systems, is a 100 kW-class High-Energy Laser Weapon System. It is designed to intercept and neutralise various threats, including rockets, artillery, and mortars (RAM), cruise missiles, and drones. It has reportedly been operational since October 2024. Few Other DEW Systems Active Denial System (ADS) is a millimetre wave source that heats the water in a human target's skin and thus causes incapacitating pain. Vigilant Eagle is a ground-based airport defence system that directs high-frequency microwaves towards any projectile that is fired at an aircraft. Raytheon had announced in 2005 that field tests had been highly effective in defeating MANPADS missiles. The system is not operationally deployed. Bofors HPM Blackout is a high-powered microwave weapon that is said to be able to destroy at a short distance a wide variety of electronic equipment and is purportedly non-lethal. The effective radiated power (ERP) of the EL/M-2080 Green Pine radar makes it a hypothetical candidate for conversion into a DEW by focusing pulses of radar energy on target missiles. The Pischal-Pro anti-drone rifle was featured at the Dubai Airshow, 2019. It is a battery-powered electromagnetic pulse weapon held to an operator's shoulder, pointed at a flying target in a way similar to a rifle, and operated. The device emits separate electromagnetic pulses to suppress navigation and transmission channels used to operate an aerial drone, terminating the drone's contact with its operator and sending it out of control. The Russian Stupor is reported to have a range of two kilometres, covering a 20-degree sector; it also suppresses the drone's cameras. It has reportedly been used in Syria. The Ukrainian army has reportedly used the Ukrainian KVS G-6, with a 3.5 km range and able to operate continuously for 30 minutes. It can disrupt remote control, the transmission of video at 2.4 and 5 GHz, and GPS and Glonass satellite navigation signals. A UK-developed system unveiled in May 2024 uses radio waves to fry the electronic components of its targets, rendering them inoperable. It is capable of engaging multiple targets, including drone swarms, and reportedly costs less than 10 pence (13 cents) per shot. Epirus Inc, a defence technology start-up based in Torrance, California, unveiled on March 25 the Leonidas system, a high-power microwave (HPM) weapon designed to neutralise unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) swarms. Chinese researchers have claimed to develop a high-power microwave (HPM) weapon that is capable of producing electromagnetic pulses with an intensity similar to that of a nuclear explosion. The US Army tested a high-power microwave weapon as part of the US-Philippines Balikatan 2025 joint military drills. This is the first time the weapon has been employed in the Indo-Pacific region and coincides with rapidly rising tensions with China. During the Iraq War, electromagnetic weapons, including high-power microwaves, were used by the US military to disrupt and destroy Iraqi electronic systems. The first officially known use of DEWs in combat between military forces was claimed to have occurred in Libya in August 2019 by Turkey, which claimed to use the ALKA directed-energy weapon. To Summarise Mastering the DEW technologies has long been the holy grail of air defence systems. While there have been global efforts to replace traditional kinetic weapons and missile air defence systems, the recent proliferation of much cheaper Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and the emergence of drone swarms as asymmetric threats have driven the demand for DEWs with counter-UAS and counter-swarm capabilities. This has been witnessed during the recent conflicts like the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict or Houthi attacks on US naval fleets, where relatively weaker state and non-state players are accruing disproportionate gains against their stronger adversaries. Once detected by a radar followed by tracking through an electro-optic (EO) system, DEWs can engage targets at the speed of light and neutralise the target. This type of cutting-edge weaponry has the potential to revolutionise the battle space by reducing the reliance on expensive ammunition while also lowering the risk of collateral damage. DRDO is also working on higher-powered laser systems, including a 300 kW 'Surya' DEW with a 20-kilometre range. The Kilo Ampere Linear Injector 'KALI', is being co-developed with the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre. KALI will generate high-intensity electron pulses, which can be translated into electromagnetic radiation in the form of X-ray or microwave frequencies. It will act like a high-power microwave gun, designed to destroy incoming aircraft and missiles with a 'soft-kill' system that disables their sensitive electronic systems. India's private sector is getting big into DEW. The future is in DEW. DEWs are being designed to be flown on aircraft or housed on military satellites. Action is expanding. The DEW market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) between 16.16 per cent and 19.6 per cent. Specifically, one report projects the market to grow from $1.77 billion in 2023 to $6.96 billion by 2032, with a CAGR of 16.16 per cent. India must remain at 'full throttle' to become a major player. The writer is former Director General, Centre for Air Power Studies. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost's views.
Hans India
10 hours ago
- Hans India
Dr Kalam is right: Determination is the power that sees through all our frustrations and obstacles
The nation fondly remembers Dr APJ Abdul Kalam on his 10th death anniversary (July 27) like it has been doing for the last nine years. This is a time to reflect on the remarkable life, achievements and the extraordinary legacy the 'Missile Man of India' and 'People's President' has left behind. Dr Kalam's significant contributions to the country's space and defence programs and as the President and his vision for a developed India continues to inspire generations, including in pursuing careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). Dr. Kalam's humility, determination, and commitment to public service and his desire to see India as a knowledge super-power serve as a role model for individuals seeking to make a positive impact. His pearls of wisdom and life lessons continue to motivate the younger generations to dream big and act with conviction. Abdul Kalam was known for his simple and humble demeanor. He often described himself as a short man with undistinguished looks especially when compared to his tall and handsome parents. He possessed a warm and genuine smile that endeared him to many. His appearance reflected his inner simplicity and approachable nature. He was often seen as a man of the people, connecting with individuals from all walks of life. His long, signature hair style, parted in the middle and often described as 'dreadlocks', became a part of his persona. There is no exaggeration that Kalam's hairstyle too has numerous fans. Driven by the belief that only a strong technologically advanced nation can achieve international recognition and command respect, he agreed to spearhead the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP) in 1982. This was DRDO's quest to achieve self-reliance and shed external dependence on missile technology. Not one to rest on laurels after inspiring missiles ranging from Agni, Prithvi, Akash, Trishul and Nag, Dr Kalam's relentless pursuit of technological excellence fell on an unfinished supersonic combustion engine during a visit to Russia in 1993. This formed the genesis of the BrahMos missile project, a joint venture of India and Russia. It takes its name from the River Brahmaputra and Russia's Moskva. It is this very missile that broke Pakistan's spine and brought it to its knees during Operation Sindoor. Brahmos stands as a testament to the technological prowess achieved under Kalam's guidance and integrating indigenous expertise with international collaboration. BrahMos marked India's emergence as a global missile power and a defense arms exporter. Dr. Kalam's vision, leadership and scientific acumen transformed India's defence landscape. We turned the tables on the world, while it became the backbone of a large-scale military operation, proving that India's ambition to be Atmanirbhar is not just aspirational, but action driven. Soon after assuming power in March 1998, the then prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee had a high-level discussion with Kalam and Dr Rajagopala Chidambaram, Director of BARC, and conducting nuclear tests was on top of theagenda. The tests consisted of five detonations. The tests were collectively called Operation Shakti. Kalam played a pivotal role in the 1998 Pokhran-II nuclear tests, serving as the key organizer and scientific advisor to the government. He was instrumental in coordinating efforts between DRDO, BARC, and the armed forces to ensure the success of the tests that were kept top secret. People in the nearby villages were terrified, the earth shook, the sky was covered with smoke while Vajpayee announced that India had become a nuclear power with Pokhran II. Almost immediately, India was subject to economic sanctions by Japan and the United States. On the other hand, India emerged stronger and solidified its position as a nuclear power. Kalam became a national hero overnight. He evolved a national strategy called 'Technology Vision 2020', which was the blueprint for the country's missile saga. The missile man had an overbearing humane touch. I was blessed to have met this great human being a couple of times. The first time I was face to face with him was as a member of DRDO ladies' group. We were invited to Rashtrapati Bhavan for breakfast. Meeting the President over breakfast was not an ordinary thing for an ordinary human being like me. As he had a pressing engagement, we were informed that he would join us later. What followed was an unbelievably emotional gesture. Dr Kalam arrived holding steaming idlis and hot wadas in both hands. He offered them to us, while apologizing for joining late. I was speechless and amazed to see the country's first citizen and the globally revered 'Missile Man', in his entire down-to-earth and unpretentious humility. With a warm smile he said he was illiterate as regards food technology. He admired the ladies for their prowess in cooking. One of our members said 'Sir, this is the only job we know''. He came a little closer and said 'Food is the basic requirement for every one of us. The country's strength and future lie on women. The foundation for a strong India is entirely on them. If men and children are successful in life, it's because of the mothers of this great country. With empty stomachs nobody can think of science and technology.' Here was the man simple and humane to the core, who valued the dignity of every individual, regardless of their job or status. His words taught me that compassion, consideration and concern are the key to life and being accessible to your people in whichever situation you are in is very important. All those who were associated with him experienced his warmth and affection. A DRDO scientist urgently needed to be transported to London in a medical emergency. Kalam left no stone unturned till the scientist returned to the country in perfect health. Such was his concern for his people. Dr. Kalam was convinced that children are the future of the country, and one had to ignite their minds. It was towards this that he dedicated himself to the cause of igniting their minds. He said he would interact with at least one lakh children in a year. He was deeply disturbed by the societal connects. He always remembered how his father and the high priest of Rameswaram temple could discuss Bhagwat Gita and Quran in their houses. He always mentioned how a church was transformed into a technology laboratory and became the birthplace of the nation's rocket technology. To him that was the fusion of science and spirituality, and he wished such fusion to happen in all fields in continuum. Dr. Abdul Kalam worked on the vision of transforming India into a developed nation, powered by economic growthwith a value system. His vision was a 'developed' India, which can be accomplished only if each citizen of the country says in true Kalam spirit; 'Yes, I can. Yes, India can. Yes, India will'. That is the finest tribute we Indians can pay to Dr. Abdul Kalam.
India.com
15 hours ago
- India.com
China Triggers Alarm With 1,000 KM Range Air-To-Air Hypersonic Missile; Who Should Be Worried?
Beijing: China has reportedly tested an air-to-air missile capable of striking aerial targets at a distance of up to 1,000 kilometres. It has sent ripples across the global defense community. If accurate, the test could signal a fundamental shift in modern air combat strategy. It will potentially allow fighter jets to neutralise enemy aircraft long before they even come into radar range. The development was first reported by South China Morning Post, citing Chinese military sources. According to the report, the missile reaches speeds beyond Mach 5. It has placed it in the hypersonic category. It is designed to intercept high-value aerial targets, including stealth fighters and surveillance aircraft. Chinese engineers are said to be working on this new system with the aim of providing long-range superiority across contested airspaces. Still unnamed publicly, the project may allow China to target aircraft such as the U.S. F-22 Raptor, F-35 stealth fighters and the B-21 Raider well before they enter engagement range. Missiles of this class are typically referred to as Beyond Visual Range (BVR) air-to-air missiles. They form a critical part of next-generation aerial warfare. Until now, the longest-range BVR missiles in service globally include Russia's R-37M and the U.S. AIM-174B. Both are capable of reaching distances around 350-400 kilometres. Presently under development, India's Astra Mk-3 is expected to match that range once deployed. However, a 1,000-kilometre air-to-air missile would outclass all existing systems. Experts say that if China's claims are validated, the development could force countries like India, Japan, Taiwan and even the United States to re-evaluate their air combat doctrines. No matter how stealthy, no fighter jet could escape a missile launched from that distance. The implications are serious, assuming tracking and targeting systems remain precise. Historically, air-to-air missiles have evolved from short-range weapons introduced in the 1950s, such as the U.S. AIM-9 Sidewinder and the Soviet K-series, to the BVR missiles of today. The modern battlefield increasingly depends on aerial platforms like AWACS and AEW&CS for surveillance and coordination. A missile capable of striking these assets from such vast ranges could potentially change the outcome of future conflicts before they even escalate. India, which currently fields the Astra Mk-1 and is working on Astra Mk-2 and Mk-3, faces a widening gap in this segment. While the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has made consistent progress, there are calls within India's strategic community to accelerate indigenous hypersonic missile development. In addition, India may need to invest more heavily in advanced radar systems and tracking sensors, potentially through ISRO-DRDO collaboration, to detect and respond to threats launched from long distances at high speeds. As per the latest assessments, India's current missile capabilities are limited to around 400 kilometres in range. While the Chinese claim has not yet been independently verified, military analysts suggest it would be prudent for India to consider the scenario as credible and prepare accordingly. The development comes at a time when tensions remain high in East Asia, particularly around Taiwan and the South China Sea. If China's new missile enters operational service, it could give the country significant leverage across the region, including air dominance over key hotspots. Though the precise operational status of the missile remains unclear, the signal from Beijing is loud enough. Nations dependent on legacy BVR systems now face pressure to catch up, both in terms of range and speed, before the skies become inaccessible.
