Astra Microwave: Radar Ready for Growth

Astra Microwave is a key player across Defence, Aerospace, Space, Meteorology, and Telecom sectors. It designs and manufactures defence and aerospace electronic systems, subsystems, and components, winning top industry awards in 2022. Known for its airborne radar systems, Astra delivered the Active Array Antenna Unit for the Uttam AESA Radar, vital for the LCA Mk1A fighter jet, with technology leveraged for other prominent defence projects. The company works closely with defence public sector units and is involved in jammer programs for fighter jets like the LCA Mk1A and Sukhoi-30MKI. It supplies telemetry subsystems for aircraft like the LCA Tejas and intermediate trainers, supporting aerospace air traffic control with radar electronics. Financially, Astra reported 29% revenue growth year-on-year to ₹2 billion in Q1 FY26. Operating margins improved by 500 basis points to 20.5%, and PAT surged 126.2% to ₹160 million. Its order book of ₹18.9 billion provides strong revenue visibility for about two years, with management targeting ₹13-14 billion in total orders by FY26-end. Astra aims to grow top-line by 20% and bottom-line by 18% in FY26. Defence contributes 86.4% of revenue, with exports at 10%—the latter expected to grow to 30% in 2-3 years. The company is upgrading its Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuits portfolio, projecting over $50 million sales in five years and expanding global partnerships to sell new radar and anti-drone solutions worldwide. For shareholders, Astra Microwave’s robust growth, margin expansion, and strategic positioning amid rising defence spending and export momentum make it a valuable and promising investment.