Defence
India and Japan may build new missile to counter Chinese PL 17
From India’s Gandiva to Europe’s Meteor, nations are racing to field powerful beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles with unmatched range, seekers, and stealth compatibility.
Imagine fighter jets engaging in combat without ever seeing their adversaries—locked on and destroyed hundreds of kilometers away. This is the realm of beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles (BVRAAMs), and India and Japan are now looking to take a giant leap in this domain together.
The Potential Collaboration
According to defense sources, the two nations are exploring a joint venture to co-develop a next-generation BVRAAM compatible with India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) and Japan’s Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) sixth-generation fighter.
Unlike conventional missiles, this weapon will be designed for internal weapons bays, allowing stealth jets to remain radar-invisible while carrying heavy firepower.
The China Factor
The push comes amid concerns over China’s PL-16 and PL-17, which boast ranges of over 300 km, giving Beijing’s fighters a major edge. India and Japan, both wary of Chinese air dominance, see this partnership as a strategic equalizer in the Indo-Pacific.
Tech Exchange Driving Talks
Momentum grew after India shared guidance and ECCM data from recovered Chinese PL-15E missiles with Japan in early 2025. This unprecedented exchange strengthened trust and highlighted the urgency of cooperation.
Leveraging Strengths
- India’s Astra MkIII (Gandiva) program is pushing boundaries with solid fuel ducted ramjet propulsion, targeting a 340 km range.
- Japan brings in seeker expertise through the AAM-4B and JNAAM, a Meteor variant with an advanced AESA seeker.
- Together, this synergy could yield a missile that combines India’s propulsion expertise with Japan’s sensor precision, optimized for stealth fighters.
Diplomatic Momentum
Though no formal deal has been signed yet, the May 2025 Defence Ministers’ meeting in Delhi spotlighted co-development possibilities. Both governments are weighing industrial cooperation models and technology-sharing agreements.
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