What significant decision did the Indian Air Force (IAF)

Solution

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has given approval for the production of 200 Astra Mk-1 missiles, which are intended to be deployed on the Su-30 MKI and the indigenously developed Light Combat Aircraft Tejas. This decision underscores the IAF's commitment to enhancing its aerial combat capabilities with advanced, domestically-produced weaponry. The Astra Mk-1 missile, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and manufactured by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), is a beyond visual range (BVR) air-to-air missile capable of engaging various aerial threats effectively due to its impressive range and speed.