India’s indigenous fighter jet, the HAL Tejas Mk1A, is set to receive a significant upgrade with Israel’s cutting-edge Sky Sting Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM). RAFAEL Advanced Defense Systems has proposed this formidable weapon, capable of engaging targets up to 250 kilometers away, potentially giving the Tejas an advantage over advanced enemy missiles like China’s PL-15. This offer stems from the deepening defense collaboration between India and Israel.
The integration process is anticipated to be swift, leveraging the Tejas Mk1A’s existing ELM-2052 AESA radar and Digital Flight Control Computer (DFCC). Defense sources suggest this could take approximately 18 months, with minimal live-firing trials needed for operational clearance. RAFAEL presented this proposal during high-level defense discussions in Tel Aviv in July 2025, also offering similar integration for India’s Su-30MKI fighters. Initial deliveries of 200-300 missiles could be ready by mid-2026.
The Sky Sting is a powerful missile, weighing around 180-200 kilograms. It features a three-stage rocket motor for sustained speed and extended range. Guidance relies on GPS and inertial navigation during the mid-course, transitioning to an active RF seeker for the final attack. A two-way data link allows pilots to update targets in real-time, while its high-explosive warhead is designed to neutralize enemy aircraft, even under severe electronic jamming. Captive flight trials are expected within six months, followed by live testing, aiming for service entry by mid-2027. This integration is expected to enhance air dominance for both Tejas and Su-30MKI fleets, potentially bridging gaps caused by delays in India’s Astra MkIII program.
