2 days ago
Meet R-37 Vympel Air-to-Air Missile, a game changer weapon which can help IAF destroy Pakistan, China forces within minutes, it is capable of...
Meet R-37 Vympel Air-to-Air Missile, a game changer weapon which can help IAF destroy Pakistan, China forces within minutes, it is capable of
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is looking at buying the Russian-made R-37 Vympel air-to-air missile, which can hit targets as far as 200 km away, news agency ANI reported. This step is part of the IAF's plan to strengthen its ability to fight in the air from long distances, especially to deal with changing regional security threats and to counter advanced fighter jets.
The R-37 Vympel, also called the RVV-BD (Beyond Visual Range) missile, is among the longest-range air-to-air missiles in the world. It is made to destroy high-value targets such as fighter planes, airborne warning and control aircraft (AEW&C), and even strategic bombers.
Depending on its version, the missile can travel up to 200 km and in some cases, up to 300 km. It has an active radar guidance system and a dual-stage solid rocket motor, allowing it to reach speeds over Mach 6. What is the ability of R-37?
The R-37's ability to hit targets from very long distances matches the IAF's needs, especially in a possible two-front conflict with China and Pakistan. Once fitted onto the IAF's Sukhoi Su-30 MKI fighter jets the missile is expected to give India a stronger deterrent against advanced enemy aircraft like Pakistan's F-16s and China's J-20 stealth fighters. Why does IAF wants to buy R-37?
The IAF's interest in the R-37 has grown after the success of Operation Sindoor in May 2025. During this mission, India's S-400 air defense system shot down five Pakistani fighter jets and an AEW&C aircraft from more than 300 km away.
