New tension for Pakistan, China as this Indian weapon to get…, DRDO obtains formula of China’s…

DRDO decided to upgrade Astra Mark-2 after analysing a Chinese PL-15E missile. The unexploded PL-15E was recovered in Punjab’s Hoshiarpur.

Astra Mark-2: In recent years, India has upgraded and strengthened its weapons capabilities. The country has also emerged as a leading defence equipment exporter, with other countries showing interest in ‘Made in India’ weapons. New Delhi has also accelerated its efforts to develop lethal missiles and fighter jets using indigenous technology. The Indian Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) has recently decided to upgrade the indigenous Astra Mark-2 missile project. DRDO is incorporating some advanced features of the Chinese PL-15 missile in Astra Mark-2. Let’s know more.

Why DRDO Incorporating Features Of Chinese PL-15 Missile In Astra Mark-2?

The step has been taken after closely analysing a PL-15E missile fired by Pakistan during Operation Sindoor. Pak fired this missile from its JF-17 or J-10C fighter aircraft, which failed to hit its target and was found in a field near Punjab’s Hoshiarpur.

PL-15 Missile Was Found In Punjab

On May 9, PL-15E missile was recovered intact and unexploded from a field near Hoshiarpur. It didn’t explode due to the weapon’s lack of a self-destruct mechanism, unlike other Indian air-to-air missiles. The Indian scientists closely analysed and subsequently tested its features. After closely analysing the Made in China missile, the DRDO has now decided to incorporate the PL-15 missile’s features into the Astra Mark-2 missile.

HIGHLIGHTS

• DRDO decided to upgrade Astra Mark-2 after analysing a Chinese PL-15E missile.
• The unexploded PL-15E was recovered in Punjab’s Hoshiarpur.
• DRDO found advanced traits like AESA radar, Mach 5 speed, and anti-jamming tech in Chinese missile.
• Pakistan is now seeking PL-17 missiles from China, YIHA drones from Turkey for its air force.

Do Chinese Weapons Have Great Features?

It is worth noting that the DRDO has not yet shared any details about its analysis report which it submitted to the Defence Ministry. However, as per a report by Hindustan Times, citing people familiar with the matter, the testing and investigation have revealed several outstanding features of the Chinese weapon. The features include – miniaturised active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar with advanced propulsion capable of maintaining speeds over Mach 5, sophisticated anti-jamming capabilities and radar technology. Now, all these features will be incorporated into India’s indigenous Astra missile development program.

Why Pakistan Trying To Acquire PL-17 Missile

As per several reports, the Pakistan Air Force is in talks with the Chinese authorities for acquiring long-range PL-17 missiles. It is also trying to buy 2,000 YIHA suicide drones from Turkey and has also submitted a list of high-tech weapons to the US.