European defence major MBDA signs pact with IAF to implement MRO capabilities for MICA missiles

NEW DELHI: European defence major with expertise in missiles, MBDA, has signed an agreement with the Indian Air Force (IAF) for the development of a local capability for the maintenance, repair and mid-life overhaul (MRO) of MICA missiles. The IAF uses MICA missiles as a versatile air-to-air weapon on its Rafale and upgraded Mirage 2000 fighter jets as these missiles are designed for both beyond-visual-range (BVR) and short-range dogfighting. MICA was first incorporated into the IAF in 2016, following the upgrade of its Mirage 2000 fleet.

The MRO facility will be set up, operated and maintained by the IAF, with Paris-headquartered MBDA supplying the industrial machinery and tools required, data packages, as well as training and technical support. Developing such a facility locally will foster long-term capability building, secure technical expertise for years to come, and develop India’s strategic autonomy, reflecting the core principles of Atmanirbhar Bharat.

This facility will help India’s domestic defence sustainment effort, improving turnaround times, with capacity to support MICA missiles throughout the duration of their time in service, significantly enhancing the operational capability and readiness of the Indian armed forces, a statement from the European company said.

Sharing a long history of partnership, the IAF has relied on MBDA’s missile systems provide the latest air combat performance across a number of different aircraft types. MBDA has supported the IAF for over 50 years, providing advanced weapons such as the MICA, Meteor, ASRAAM, and Mistral systems.