India strengthens air power with new Meteor missiles for Jets | Fusion - WeRIndia

India continues to enhance its aerial combat strength to maintain a decisive edge in regional air superiority.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to acquire a new batch of Meteor beyond-visual-range (BVR) air-to-air missiles for its Rafale fighter jet fleet.

According to defence sources, a proposal worth around ₹1,500 crore for the purchase of these advanced missiles is in its final stage of approval.

The Meteor, developed by European firm MBDA, has a range of up to 200 kilometres and offers exceptional accuracy and engagement capability.

The Rafale fleet remains the only IAF platform capable of deploying the Meteor missile.

India initially procured these missiles with the first batch of 36 Rafales acquired from France in 2016.

Moreover, the upcoming 26 naval Rafales, set to join service over the next few years, will also carry the same advanced weapon.

India’s focus on strengthening its long-range strike capability comes after its success in Operation Sindoor earlier this year.

During the conflict in May, Indian fighter jets destroyed Pakistani military and terrorist targets using long-range standoff weapons.

In response, the Pakistan Air Force launched PL-15 missiles of Chinese origin but failed to hit any Indian aircraft.

Following these developments, India has launched a comprehensive programme to enhance its BVR missile arsenal.

The country plans to procure around 700 Astra Mark 2 missiles, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation.

These missiles will have a range exceeding 200 kilometres and will be integrated with the Su-30 and Light Combat Aircraft fleets.

While the Rafales will continue using the Meteor missiles, they may also receive an indigenous anti-radiation missile in the future.

Consequently, India’s focus on combining imported precision with domestic innovation is strengthening its defence posture.

With these strategic upgrades, the IAF is positioning itself for unmatched capability in modern aerial warfare, ensuring readiness and dominance across every front.

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