Armenia is reportedly interested in purchasing ASTRA beyond visual range (BVR) air-to-air missiles developed by India to equip its Sukhoi Su-30 fighters.
The Armenian Air Force has a squadron of four Su-30SM heavy fighters (a «Russified» version of the Indian Su-30MKI), received in 2020. Initial plans to expand this to twelve units were thwarted by the outbreak of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and the defeat by Azerbaijan. Moreover, the inability of Russia, a traditional ally and arms supplier, to guarantee a stable and lasting ceasefire (which led to the loss of the disputed zone), further undermined Armenia’s chances of acquiring the remaining Sukhois. The four Su-30SMs they did have did not intervene in the conflict, allegedly for lack of adequate air-to-surface weaponry..
It is for this reason that, according to ThePrint, Armenia sees India as a possible source of armaments for its Sukhois, which would include ASTRA active radar-guided BVR missiles, but also air-to-surface guided weapons.
ASTRA is a medium-range (+110 kms) BVR air-to-air missile equipped with a solid-fuel rocket engine and an active radar guidance system. Designed for all-weather operation, the ASTRA Mk-I is integrated on the Sukhoi Su-30MKI, providing the Indian Air Force (IAF) with an enhanced air-to-air combat capability. Currently under development, the ASTRA Mk-II promises extended range and increased lethality, thanks to the incorporation of new technologies and materials.
See also: Pakistan inks historic deal with Azerbaijan for the purchase of JF-17 “Thunder” fighters
Not just armament
But in addition to the procurement of guided munitions, Armenia would also be interested in Indian assistance in the modernization and maintenance of its Su-30SMs. The IAF has one of the largest fleets of Su-30 aircraft in the world (currently 259 units), most of which were locally assembled/manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the ecosystem of companies it leads, so it has very extensive experience in maintaining and upgrading the model.
The military cooperation between India and Armenia, although recently developed, has shown significant growth. Armenia has previously acquired a variety of Indian defense systems, including artillery cannons, missiles, mortars, and radars. An agreement to modernize the Armenian Su-30 fighters with Indian technology would represent a win-win situation for both countries. For Armenia, it would mean maximizing the value of one of its largest defense investments in recent years and preventing its Su-30SMs from becoming ‘white elephants’. For India, it would represent a significant step in its efforts to become a global exporter of high-end defense systems (including its ambition to produce Su-30 fighters for export).
Talks between Yerevan and New Delhi are reportedly underway, although at a very early stage.
