Astra Microwave Products is anticipating formal production orders for the first three regiments of India’s QRSAM air-defense system by the end of 2026. If awarded, the orders could establish another major growth avenue for the defense electronics manufacturer.
The company is preparing to participate in the production stage of the program after supplying key electronic subsystems for QRSAM. Analyst assessments indicate that Astra has already started receiving FOPM-related sub-orders and expects larger production orders following the award of the main contract by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL).
The Indian Army’s QRSAM is designed as a mobile short-range air-defense system capable of protecting mechanized units and critical assets against multiple aerial threats. Its architecture includes mobile missile launchers, surveillance and tracking radars, command-and-control components, and related support systems.
Astra’s involvement in the supply of electronic subsystems positions it to benefit as QRSAM moves from development into full-scale production. The company has previously highlighted the program as one of the defense initiatives that could generate larger manufacturing orders following its development-stage involvement.
The potential order for three regiments could provide Astra with an additional revenue stream while the company scales up its Uttam AESA radar business. Astra recently received a HAL order valued at more than ₹205 crore associated with the Uttam radar program and has outlined plans for increased radar production.
The expected QRSAM orders also reflect India’s expanding focus on indigenous and layered air-defense capabilities. With modern forces facing threats from aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, and drones, the system’s mobility and rapid-reaction characteristics could make it valuable for protecting forces operating on the move.
The procurement process is expected to progress through BEL, with earlier assessments suggesting that Astra’s production orders could arrive approximately three to four months after the main BEL contract is awarded.
Astra had previously indicated that QRSAM-related revenue could begin in FY27 as the program transitions into production, with production activity expected to expand further in the following financial year. Securing the first three-regiment orders by the end of 2026 could therefore make QRSAM an important near-term contributor to Astra Microwave’s growth while strengthening its position in India’s indigenous defense supply chain.
