The IAF has called on India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to push ahead with the development of longer-range missile systems as Pakistan upgrades its weaponry.
During Operation Sindoor in June, Indian fighters carried out strikes deep inside Pakistan—over 200 kilometers—using BrahMos, SCALP, Rampage, and Crystal Maze precision missiles.
Following the campaign, the IAF asked DRDO to prioritize extended-range missile programs across multiple domains, including air-to-air, air-to-ground, and surface-to-air weapons with ranges beyond 200 km.
Central to the request is the next-generation Astra missile. The Mark-1 (110 km) is already operational, while the Mark-2 (160 km) is still undergoing trials. The IAF is also considering the acquisition of Russia’s R-37, which can hit targets more than 200 km away.
Additionally, the IAF urged DRDO to hasten work on Project Kusha, India’s indigenous long-range air and missile defense program, while exploring the purchase of more Russian S-400 systems.
The push comes after reports indicated the IAF may have lost several jets to Pakistan due to misjudging the true reach of China’s PL-15 missile, which is capable of striking well beyond the originally estimated 150 km.
