Now India-Japan will jointly develop a new long-range missile! New generation “air-to-air” missile can be ready by 2030
India and Japan are considering a Joint Defence Project that will give a new dimension to Asia's security strategy in the coming times. Both countries are planning to develop a new generation air-to-air missile BVRAAM: Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile with a range of more than 300 km.
Missiles Strategic Balance in the Indo-Pacific Region: It is believed that this missile can be ready by 2030 and will be deployed on modern fighter aircraft like India's AMCA and Japan's GCAP.
Why is this missile special?
China has already deployed missiles like PL-16 (200–250 km) and PL-17 (400+ km). Their purpose is to target enemy AWACS and refuelling tankers from a distance. Both India and Japan do not have such a long-range accurate missile right now. The new joint missile will be the answer to China's growing military power.
India's current capability
India has developed the Astra series through DRDO.
Astra Mk-I: 110 km range, already included in the Air Force.
Astra Mk-II: 160 km range, trial in 2025.
Astra Mk-III (Gandiv): 340+ km range, expected to be included by 2030.
Japan's current capability
Japan has the AAM-4TDR missile, which has a range of approx 160-170 km. But it is considered weaker than China's new missiles.
Why is partnership crucial?
Recently, India shared with Japan the Electronic Counter-Countermeasures (ECCM) data it had obtained through the Chinese PL-15E missiles recovered from Pakistan during Operation Sindoor. This increased technological cooperation and trust between the two countries. Joint projects will also share the cost and make technology transfer easier.
Will the game change by 2030?
If the project is successful, by 2030 the air forces of both countries will get a new super missile. This missile will be a big weapon to create a strategic balance in the Indo-Pacific region and to answer the challenge of China. Experts believe that with this cooperation, the India-Japan defense partnership can turn into a strategic alliance.
This proposed missile project of India-Japan is not only a part of technological development, but is also a part of a geopolitical message. This step will not only strengthen the air forces of both countries, but can also prove to be important in balancing the aggressive policy of China. If this missile is ready by 2030, the role of India and Japan in the security strategy of the Indo-Pacific region will become even more decisive.