DRDO trials Python-5 air-to-air missile for Tejas
Tejas, India's indigenous Light Combat Aircraft, added the 5th generation Python-5 Air-to-Air Missile (AAM). (Photo: PIB Delhi)
DRDO has successfully trialled the Python-5 missile and the Derby beyond visual range air-to-air missile for the Tejas light combat aircraft.
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has conducted a trial of the 5th generation Python-5 air-to-air missile (AAM) for the Tejas, India’s indigenous light combat aircraft.
The trials aimed to test the Python-5’s air-to-air weapons capability and the capability of the already integrated Derby Beyond Visual Range (BVR) AAM.
Derby achieved direct hits on a high-speed manoeuvring aerial target. Python-5 also achieved 100% hits, meeting all the planned objectives of the trials.
Python-5 missile live firing was conducted to validate target engagement from all aspects as well as beyond visual ranges, in all live firings the missile hit the aerial target.
The missiles were all fired from Tejas aircraft of the Aeronautical Development Agency flown by Indian Air Force test pilots.
According to Shephard Defence Insight, the Tejas LCA features an AESA radar, a unified EW suite, an onboard oxygen generation system, smart MFDs and a HUD.
The Python-5 provides a combination of lock-on after launch and acquisition and tracking capabilities. The missile is fitted with an 11kg warhead, an IR guidance system and EO imaging.
As part of our promise to deliver comprehensive coverage to our Defence Insight and Premium News subscribers, our curated defence news content provides the latest industry updates, contract awards and programme milestones.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
![World Defense Show 2026: L3Harris to achieve full-rate production of Viper Shield soon]()
World Defense Show 2026: L3Harris to achieve full-rate production of Viper Shield soon
L3Harris has completed the production candidate software load for its Viper Shield airborne electronic warfare system and is conducting sea trials with its VAMPIRE counter-drone system.
-
![Singapore Airshow 2026: CCA manufacturers eye growing opportunities in Asia-Pacific]()
Singapore Airshow 2026: CCA manufacturers eye growing opportunities in Asia-Pacific
Companies offering collaborative combat aircraft say there is a massive potential for countries adopting the capability in the Asia-Pacific region.
-
![Singapore Airshow 2026: Saab eyes “share” in future fighter market, targets 2027 CCA demo flight]()
Singapore Airshow 2026: Saab eyes “share” in future fighter market, targets 2027 CCA demo flight
The Swedish government is expected to make a decision on the next steps of the Future Fighter System Concept programme by 2030, with the current second phase focusing on technology knowledge expansion and demonstration flights.
-
![Singapore Airshow: Red Cat ramps up portfolio development amid “key” APAC opportunities]()
Singapore Airshow: Red Cat ramps up portfolio development amid “key” APAC opportunities
In the wake of its 1,842% year-on-year revenue increase in Q4 2025, Red Cat sees mass opportunities in the Asia-Pacific region as the company eyes an ongoing production increase and market growth.
