Indian Air Force Considers Israeli Air LORA Missile for Enhanced Precision Strikes
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is assessing the potential acquisition of the Air-Launched Long-Range Artillery (Air LORA) ballistic missile system developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). Defense sources indicate that this system offers an improved precision strike capability, enabling strikes on fortified and high-value targets from stand-off distances.
This consideration follows Operation Sindoor, which reportedly exposed deficiencies in India's long-range air strike capabilities. Consequently, the IAF has accelerated its pursuit of next-generation missile systems. The interest in this acquisition is supported by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) established in 2023 between IAI and India's Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). The MoU is intended to foster joint development and indigenous production of advanced air defense technologies.
The Air LORA system is engineered for swift and precise strikes against command-and-control centers, strategic airbases, naval assets, and critical infrastructure at distances up to 430 kilometers. It also allows for dynamic target updates and has a minimum engagement range of 90 kilometers, offering flexibility in mission planning.
According to IAI, the missile represents a "revolutionary advancement" in air-to-ground systems. It operates at supersonic speeds and comes with options for either blast fragmentation or deep penetration warheads. The system is fully autonomous after launch and can be integrated with current aircraft as a stand-alone weapon or through onboard avionics.
The Air LORA system's survivability in complex and contested environments is enhanced by advanced inertial navigation systems (INS), GPS guidance, and strong anti-jamming features. Its steep attack angles and high speed allow it to circumvent conventional air defenses, ensuring mission success even in adverse weather conditions.
BEL has indicated that its collaboration with IAI is aimed not only at addressing the needs of the Indian military but also at encouraging greater involvement of local industries in the development of advanced missile technologies.
If finalized, this acquisition would strengthen the defense partnership between India and Israel while enhancing India's standing as a precision-strike capable nation in the Indo-Pacific region.
