IAF Set to Arm Rafale Jets with Indigenous Astra Missiles, Replacing French MICA for Greater Range and Self-Reliance

In a significant boost to India’s defence self-reliance, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is preparing to equip its frontline Rafale fighter jets with the home-grown Astra Mk1 and Mk2 beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles (BVRAAMs), phasing out the imported French-made MICA missiles.

This move represents more than just a weapons upgrade — it reflects a strategic decision to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers while embracing indigenous capabilities that promise better performance and long-term cost savings.

The Rafales, acquired from France in a 2016 deal with Dassault Aviation, currently carry the European MICA missiles as their main long-range weapon. These MICA missiles, made by MBDA, are available in both infrared and radar-guided versions, with an operational range of around 80 kilometres. While they served the IAF well initially, today’s changing battlefield demands more.

In modern air combat, where threats emerge from distances beyond 100 kilometres, MICA's limited range is proving to be a drawback. Adversaries like China are already fielding next-generation missiles such as the PL-15, reportedly capable of hitting targets over 200 km away. This has raised concerns within the IAF, prompting the need for a missile system that not only matches but potentially exceeds such capabilities.

Enter the Astra family of missiles, developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and manufactured by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL). The Astra Mk1, which is already operational on aircraft like the Su-30MKI and Tejas, offers a range of about 90 to 110 kilometres — already an upgrade over the MICA. It uses an active radar seeker for pinpoint targeting, and its smokeless propulsion gives it a stealthier footprint in combat.

To make the Astra Mk1 compatible with Rafale jets, Dassault Aviation is overseeing the necessary software and hardware tweaks. Once this integration is complete, the Rafales will have a missile system that’s not only more capable but also developed entirely within India.

Looking further ahead, the Astra Mk2 is in development and set to push the envelope even more. Expected to enter service by 2026–27, the Mk2 variant is designed for ranges between 130 and 160 kilometres. It will feature a dual-pulse rocket motor, improving acceleration and manoeuvrability in the final moments of engagement. With these enhancements, the Astra Mk2 will stand shoulder to shoulder with some of the world’s best, including the American AIM-120D and the Chinese PL-15E.

Meanwhile, MBDA has proposed its latest version of the MICA, called MICA-NG (Next Generation), offering improved range — between 120 and 150 kilometres — and upgraded guidance. However, despite its improved specs, the IAF appears to favour the Astra Mk2. The key reasons: cost and self-reliance. The Astra Mk2 is expected to provide similar capabilities at a fraction of the cost of the MICA-NG, making it far more suitable for equipping a large number of fighter jets.

The decision to replace imported missiles with Indian ones signals more than just an upgrade in firepower. It’s a clear message that India is ready to trust and invest in its own defence technology. With this step, the IAF not only boosts its operational edge but also contributes to the broader national goal of Atmanirbhar Bharat — a self-reliant India.

By choosing Astra over MICA, the IAF is setting a precedent for future defence planning, where cost-effective, homegrown technology takes centre stage in protecting India’s skies.