European multinational corporation MBDA has signed an agreement with the Indian Air Force (IAF) for the development of a local capability for the Maintenance, Repair and Mid-Life Overhaul (MRO) of MICA missiles.
MICA is a primary beyond-visual-range (BVR) and short-range air-to-air missile IAF mounts on its Rafale and upgraded Mirage 2000 fleets.
The MRO facility will be set up, operated and maintained by the IAF, with MBDA supplying the industrial machinery and tools required, data packages, as well as training and technical support, the company said in a statement to media.
This facility will help India’s domestic defence sustainment effort, improving turnaround times, with capacity to support MICA missiles throughout the duration of their time in service, significantly enhancing the operational capability and readiness of the Indian Armed Forces.
“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,” the statement read.
India and MBDA share a long history of partnership in equipping the IAF going back to the early days of air-to-air missiles.
Published on May 6, 2026