Correct Answer: Option C - Beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile with solid propulsion and radar seeker
ASTRA is an indigenous beyond-visual-range (BVR) air-to-air missile developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) of India. It is designed to be launched from fighter aircraft and engage aerial targets beyond visual range.
Classification: It is specifically a beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM), which means it can engage targets at ranges exceeding visual limits.
Propulsion: ASTRA uses solid fuel propulsion, making it reliable and providing the necessary thrust for intercepting high-speed aerial targets.
Guidance System: The missile employs an active radar seeker for terminal guidance, allowing it to track and hit enemy aircraft with precision. It can operate in both autonomous and fire-and-forget modes.
Range: ASTRA has an operational range of approximately 80-110 km, enabling fighter aircraft to engage hostile targets from a safe distance.
Speed: It can travel at speeds exceeding Mach 4 (four times the speed of sound).
Integration: The missile has been successfully integrated with Indian Air Force fighter aircraft like the Sukhoi Su-30MKI, Mirage-2000, MiG-29, and Tejas.
ASTRA represents a significant achievement in India's indigenous missile development program, reducing dependency on foreign weapon systems and enhancing the country's air defense capabilities.
