The missile is envisaged to intercept and destroy enemy aircraft at supersonic speeds in the head-on mode at a range of 80 km and in tail-chase mode at 20 km. it was launched from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur, about 18-km from Balasore off Odisha coast. The missile was fired at 9.50 on Friday morning.
The main purpose of Astra trial is reportedly to gauge the performance of the motor, propulsion system and the configurations of the vehicle and aerodynamics evaluation. The data is being analysed by the scientists to ascertain the outcome of the trial. The missile, after its final trials, would be integrated with fighter aircraft Su-30 MKI. Astra missiles would also be carried by MiG-29 and the Light Combat Aircraft, Tejas.