Isn't such expensive Meteor deals cannibalize Astra programme? specially the future blocks?
There is no point then paying hefty sum for astra integration into Rafale!
Nope !! Missile like Meteor are very long range BVR, which means its usage would need
1, Long range Radar >=200 km
2. Confirmed IFF/Friends or Foe confirmation -- Leave aside Fannism, no Pilot will release its BVR without Positive confirmation in Real Life, Which is very difficult at such long range, when you have borders as closed as with Pakistan. It would be only useful over the Sea, or over the Tibet Plateau or in some specific mission, like striking the high value target like AWAACs
3. Costwise it is very difficult to procure in high numbers.
4. Last but not the least, every country only supply the Export variant of the particular missile, which is always lower the par with the original Weapon.
Source based News:
- Meteor UL- BVR missile is offered not only in Rafale Jets but a preliminary customization study is underway and is included in requirements under Super 30 upgrade program (under HAL portion of work).
- MBDA is offering to provide some help in the seeker side of Astra Mk1 and dual pulse version of Astra Mk2.
- Meteor is expected to be added to common pool of IAF weapons along with Astra Mk1.
- Buzz is also there that a new paper detailing MICA NG is being shared. It said new MICA improves sensors, propellants and NEZ considerably.
Couple of things which I don't like, which is happening with the modernization of IAF and INAF is
1. We are going to have 4 different types of AESA in future aka Bars AESA, EL-2052, Zhuk ME AESA for MIG-29K, and with Rafale RBE-2 and that too from different countries, and that too from different OEMs which is going to make us a unique Airforce, with tons of headache and 4 different support, spares and upgradation. LOLZ
2. Same goes with the BVR -- Astra 1/2, Derby ER, R-77, R-23, MICA, Meteor
Baki FGFA is coming with new inventory in future.
