Overview
- MBDA and the Indian Air Force signed the agreement Wednesday to create a local Maintenance, Repair and Mid-Life Overhaul capability for MICA air-to-air missiles.
- The Air Force will set up and run the facility with MBDA supplying machinery, tools, data packages, training and technical support.
- The project aims to cut reliance on overseas support by speeding turnaround and sustaining MICA stocks through their full service life.
- The hub will support Rafale and upgraded Mirage 2000 jets as India expands its Rafale ecosystem, including naval orders and a proposed 114-aircraft purchase.
- MICA is a short- to medium-range missile with radar or infrared seekers that lets pilots engage targets both beyond visual range and at close range.