New Delhi, July 12: The Centre is reportedly preparing to introduce another major reform in India’s defence manufacturing sector by allowing private companies to manufacture advanced missiles, a move aimed at strengthening domestic production capacity and supporting the country’s growing defence exports.
According to reports, the Ministry of Defence is expected to invite proposals from private defence manufacturers for the production of the Astra Mark-2 beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
Private Sector May Manufacture Astra Mark-2
The proposed initiative is intended to enhance missile production to meet rising domestic requirements and growing international demand for Indian-made defence systems.
The move follows increasing global interest in India’s indigenous defence equipment. Indonesia has recently expressed interest in procuring the Astra missile, highlighting the expanding export potential of India’s defence industry.
Major Defence Companies Expected to Participate
Several leading Indian defence and engineering companies are expected to participate in the proposed bidding process, including:
- ICOMM
- Adani Group
- Bharat Forge
- Tata Group
- Mahindra Group
The Defence Ministry is likely to invite formal proposals in the coming weeks, according to media reports.
What is Astra Mark-2?
The Astra Mark-2 is India’s next-generation beyond-visual-range (BVR) air-to-air missile, designed to engage enemy aircraft at long distances.
Key features include:
- Maximum strike range of up to 200 kilometres
- Developed by DRDO
- Designed to counter advanced long-range air-to-air missiles such as China’s PL-15E
- Compatible with multiple fighter aircraft, including:
- Tejas Mk-1A
- MiG-29
- Sukhoi Su-30MKI
- Rafale Marine
The missile is expected to significantly enhance the Indian Air Force’s long-range aerial combat capabilities.
Pralay Missile Also Under Consideration
Reports also suggest that the government is considering involving the private sector in the manufacturing of the indigenous Pralay ballistic missile as part of its broader push for self-reliance in defence production.
At present, private defence companies primarily manufacture aircraft components, drones, artillery systems and naval platforms. Expanding their role to missile production would mark a significant milestone in India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.
However, the Ministry of Defence has not yet issued an official notification confirming the proposal.
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