In a landmark policy shift, India's Centre is set to allow private companies to manufacture indigenous missiles, moving away from its traditional reliance on government-owned production agencies. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)-developed Astra Mark-2 is slated to be the inaugural program under this new framework, signaling a significant expansion of private-sector participation in a critical defense segment.
The Defence Ministry plans to issue a Request for Proposal (RFP), inviting eligible private defense firms to bid for the production of the Astra Mark-2. This beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile boasts a strike range exceeding 180 km, significantly enhancing the Indian Air Force's aerial combat capabilities. It is designed for integration with frontline platforms such as the Sukhoi Su-30MKI and the upcoming Tejas Mk-2 fighter aircraft.
Boosting Domestic Capacity and Exports
This strategic move aims to expand India's manufacturing capacity for advanced weapon systems beyond existing public-sector units, fostering a robust domestic industrial base. If successful, the model could be extended to other indigenous missile programs, further strengthening India's self-reliance in defense production.
The policy also aligns with India's growing ambitions as a defense exporter. Global demand for Indian-made defense systems is on the rise, with countries like Indonesia expressing interest in acquiring the Astra missile, alongside the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile. Greater private-sector involvement is expected to help India scale up production to meet both its own military requirements and increasing overseas demand.