Description

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Context

Akash Missile System is an indigenously developed surface-to-air missile system by the Defence Research and Development Organisation.

Recently Akash played a crucial role in thwarting Pakistan’s aerial offensive during Operation Sindoor.

Background & Development

Phase	Details
Origins	Part of IGMDP (Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme) initiated in the 1980s
Trials	Early trials: late 1990s–early 2000s
Induction	Indian Air Force (2014) and Indian Army (2015)
Manufacturers	Major production by Bharat Electronics Ltd. and Bharat Dynamics Ltd.
Indigenization Level	~96% indigenous content; over 250 Indian industries involved

Features and Working

System Components

Central Acquisition Radar (3D): Scans and tracks targets (range up to 120 km).
Fire Control Radar – Rajendra: Tracks multiple targets (up to 80 km) and guides multiple missiles.
Command & Control Centre: Calculates interception trajectory.
Mobile Launchers: Each capable of holding 3 missiles.
Missile: Ramjet-powered, speed up to Mach 2.5, high manoeuvrability.
Warhead: 55 kg pre-fragmented, proximity fuse-based.

Operational Parameters

Parameter	Capability
Range	27–30 km (original), 70 km (Akash-NG)
Altitude	Up to 18 km
Speed	Mach 2.5
Mobility	Fully mobile on road and rail
Target Types	Aircraft, cruise missiles, drones, UAVs
Guidance	Command-guided till terminal phase, then on-board seeker engages the target

Why Akash is a Game-Changer

Accuracy & Efficiency

Multi-target tracking and engagement.

Handles low-flying, high-speed targets including drones and cruise missiles.

Short detection-to-destruction time.

Mobility

All subsystems (radar, control centre, launchers) mounted on mobile platforms for quick deployment/redeployment.

Electronic Resilience

Equipped with Electronic Counter-Counter Measures.

High resistance to jamming, spoofing, and radar deception by enemies.

Variants and Their Significance

Variant	Features	Operational Relevance
Akash (Original)	30 km range, standard radar-guided	First-generation; operational with Army & IAF
Akash Prime (2021)	Better performance in low-temperature, high-altitude areas; has RF seeker	Secures high-altitude critical infrastructure
Akash-NG (New Gen)	Range: 70 km, lightweight, canisterised, low radar signature interception	For high-manoeuvrability aerial threats; suited for stealth era warfare

Sources:

INDIANEXPRESS

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Discuss the strategic significance of India’s indigenously developed Akash missile system in strengthening national security. How does it reflect the goals of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’? 250 Words.