What is the key objective of the 'Made-In-India' Astra Mk-1 missiles set to be delivered to the Indian Air Force (IA

• Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) is on track to enhance the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) air-to-air capabilities with the delivery of the ‘Made-in-India’ Astra Beyond Visual Range (BVR) Air-to-Air Missile (AAM) by the end of 2023.  • In May 2022, the IAF placed orders for 248 Astra Mk-1 BVR missiles, 200 for the IAF and 48 for the Indian Navy, from the state-owned BDL. • The first batch of these missiles is set to be delivered by the end of 2023, and the entire order will be completed within six years from the contract signing. • These advanced AAMs have been designed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and possess the capability to target various aerial threats, including enemy fighter jets, drones, helicopters, cruise missiles, and cargo planes. Learn Along: About DRDO Founded: 1958                                           Chairman: Sameer V. Kamat