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India’s cutting-edge air-to-air missile, previously known as Astra MK-III, has been officially renamed Gandiva, inspired by the mythical bow wielded by Arjuna in the epic Mahabharata. This rebranding marks a symbolic nod to India's cultural legacy while highlighting its growing defence capabilities.

Overview of the Gandiva (Astra MK-III) Missile

Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Gandiva is a beyond-visual-range (BVR) missile currently undergoing final stages of development. It is designed to be equipped on frontline fighter aircraft such as the Sukhoi Su-30MKI and LCA Tejas of the Indian Air Force (IAF).

Upon induction, Gandiva is set to become one of the longest-range air-to-air BVR missiles globally, significantly enhancing India's aerial combat capabilities.

Key Capabilities and Features

• Engagement Range:
  • Up to 340 km when the target is flying at 20 km altitude.
  • Around 190 km if the target is at an altitude of 8 km.
• Propulsion System: Powered by a dual-fuel ducted ramjet engine, allowing high-speed performance across various altitudes—from sea level to 20 km.
• Speed and Maneuverability:
  • Launch speed: Between Mach 0.8 and 2.2.
  • Target engagement speed: Between Mach 2.0 and 3.6.
  • Can engage agile aerial targets with an angle of attack up to 20 degrees.
• Altitude Adaptability: Features a ±10 km snap-up/snap-down capability, enabling it to intercept targets that are significantly above or below the altitude of the launching aircraft.

Strategic Importance

Gandiva is designed to neutralize a wide spectrum of aerial threats, including:

• Enemy fighter jets
• Bombers and transport aircraft
• Aerial refueling planes
• AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control Systems)