IAF Equips Tejas Mk1A with ASRAAM Missile, Phasing Out Russian R-73 for Superior Close Combat

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is making a significant upgrade to its Tejas Mk1A Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) by integrating the Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missile (ASRAAM), a cutting-edge European missile. This move marks a shift from the older Russian-made R-73 missile, enhancing the Tejas Mk1A’s capability in within-visual-range (WVR) air combat.

The R-73, also known as the AA-11 Archer in NATO terminology, has been a reliable short-range missile in the IAF’s arsenal for years. However, with evolving aerial threats and advancements in missile technology, the IAF has opted for a more modern solution. The ASRAAM, developed by European defence giant MBDA, brings superior range, advanced infrared seeker technology, and exceptional maneuverability—key factors that make it a game-changer in dogfights.

One of the most significant advantages of the ASRAAM is its extended range of up to 50 kilometers, far surpassing the R-73’s 30-kilometer range. Additionally, its high off-boresight targeting capability allows pilots to engage enemy aircraft from extreme angles using helmet-mounted displays, a crucial advantage in high-intensity aerial combat. Moreover, the missile's advanced seeker technology enhances resistance to enemy countermeasures, making it more effective in complex battlefield scenarios.

The transition from the R-73 to ASRAAM is being implemented gradually, with the IAF integrating the missile into its Tejas Mk1A fleet over time. A crucial aspect of this upgrade is the plan for ASRAAM's production in India. MBDA has expressed its commitment to working with Indian defence firms for local manufacturing, aligning with India’s broader goal of self-reliance in defence production. This approach will not only ensure a steady supply for the IAF but also facilitate technology transfer and create job opportunities in the domestic defence sector.

Additionally, Tejas Mk1A is also armed with Israel’s Python-5 missile, another highly advanced close-combat missile (CCM). The Python-5 has already been operationally cleared by the IAF and, when used alongside the ASRAAM, provides pilots with a versatile and formidable WVR engagement capability.

With the ASRAAM and Python-5 complementing the Tejas Mk1A’s combat arsenal, the aircraft is now significantly better equipped to handle modern aerial threats. This development reflects the IAF’s continuous efforts to modernize its fighter fleet, ensuring it remains a formidable force in the region.