India's Tejas fighter jet has launched its first ever ASTRA BVR missile, which has a launch range of up to 100 kilometres and a top speed of over 5,500 km/h

The Indian Ministry of Defence has announced the first launch of the ASTRA BVR (Beyond-Bisual-Range) air-to-air missile. The test involved a Tejas light fighter aircraft.

Here's What We Know

ASTRA BVR is an Indian development. The historic test took place in the western part of India. The launch was observed by representatives of Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification, Defence Research and Development Organisation, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.

The ASTRA BVR missile was fired by the fighter pilot at an altitude of nearly 6,100 metres. The test achieved all the set targets. Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said the new missile will enhance the combat capability of the Tejas aircraft and reduce dependence on imported weapons.

ASTRA BVR has a launch range of up to 100 kilometres and can reach speeds of up to Mach 4.5 (5,512.7 km/h). It is capable of destroying highly manoeuvrable supersonic air threats. The Indian Air Force now uses ASTRA-1 missiles, while ASTRA-2 with a maximum launch range of 160 kilometres is under development.

Source: Indian Ministry of Defence