The Air Force’s missile inventory, worth thousands of crore, is slated for a major upgrade adding another 10-15 years to their shelf-life. According to retired Major General P. Mohandas, chairman and managing director of Bharat Dynamics Ltd (BDL), the decision was taken by Defence Minister George Fernandes a few months ago.‘‘It is difficult for a country like ours to import new missiles. We have developed the capability to upgrade them. Only the US can afford to throw away old missiles,’’ he said. ‘‘We have the technology and will do it at one-third the cost abroad.’’ According to Mohandas, missiles which have completed their shelf-life ‘‘become unreliable and need refurbishing’’. Initially, the surface-to-air missiles Pechora and Osaka and the air-to-air R-60 MK missiles will be upgraded. BDL has also developed counter measures for the IAF, and flight trials will be conducted soon.
