The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to enhance its air combat capabilities by integrating the advanced Meteor beyond-visual-range missile onto its Sukhoi Su-30MKI and indigenous Tejas aircraft. Approval from MBDA for compatibility with India’s homegrown GaN AESA radars resolves previous technical challenges, ensuring no sensitive data will be shared with Russian avionics. This upgrade, which combines Western missile technology with indigenous radar systems, marks a significant step toward achieving strategic autonomy. The first upgrades are expected by 2030, with the integration poised to significantly bolster the IAF’s combat potential, thereby reinforcing India’s defense posture in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.