In a major boost to the combat readiness of the Indian armed forces and the attempts to boost self-reliance in defence, European missile maker MBDA has signed an agreement with the Indian Air Force (IAF) to establish a dedicated facility in India for the maintenance, repair and mid-life overhaul of the MICA missile.
The move could significantly reduce dependence of the IAF on overseas support for sustaining one of the force's key air-to-air missile systems. Until now, servicing and major overhaul of such advanced weapon systems often involved long logistics chains, technical dependencies and extended turnaround times.
With the new MRO facility to be operated by the IAF itself, supported by MBDA’s machinery, technical know-how and training, India will be able to inspect, repair and upgrade MICA missiles within the country.
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This is expected to drastically cut downtime, ensure faster missile availability during operational requirements, and improve fleet readiness during both peacetime deployments and conflict scenarios.
"Developing these facilities 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, the ambitious campaign launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2020," a statement read.
The facility could become a major force multiplier, allowing the IAF to sustain missile stocks over decades while maintaining high serviceability rates. Besides, it could boost the capability in handling complex precision-guided weapons.
MICA is the multi-mission air-to-air missile system for the Rafale and the latest versions of Mirage 2000-5 combat aircraft. It offers the fighter jets a unique tactical flexibility to engage any type of target, including fighter, cargo, small target, helicopter, in any circumstances thanks to its dual seeker capability at any range—from beyond visual and short range.