Why in News?
Russia has given approval to export the advanced R-37M (RVV-BD) air-to-air missile to India. This missile significantly enhances the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) long-range combat capability, especially against high-value airborne targets.
What is R-37M Missile?
- The R-37M (RVV-BD) is an ultra-long-range air-to-air missile (AAM) developed by Russia.
- It is designed to engage and destroy targets at extremely long distances.
- Range: 300–400 km (one of the longest in the world)
- Speed: Exceeds Mach 6 (hypersonic category).
- The missile will be deployed on the Sukhoi Su-30MKI.
- This significantly boosts the IAF’s Beyond Visual Range (BVR) combat strength.
Concept: Air-to-Air Missiles (AAM)
An Air-to-Air Missile (AAM) is a guided weapon launched from an aircraft to destroy enemy aircraft.
Types of AAM:
- Within Visual Range (WVRAAM)
- Range: Less than 30 km
- Guidance: Infrared (heat-seeking)
- Beyond Visual Range (BVRAAM)
- Range: More than 37 km
- Guidance: Radar-guided
- Examples:
- Astra Mark I
- Astra Mark II
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