Akash Missile System
The Akash Missile System is an indigenously developed medium-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) system designed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) of India. It forms a key component of India’s air defence network, providing protection against aerial threats such as fighter aircraft, helicopters, drones, and missiles. The system reflects India’s efforts towards self-reliance in defence technology under initiatives such as “Make in India”.
Background and Development
The development of the Akash Missile System began in the 1980s under India’s Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP), which also produced other missiles such as Prithvi, Agni, and Nag. The Akash project aimed to provide a mobile, quick-reaction air defence solution for the Indian Army and Air Force.
After extensive testing and refinements, the system was formally inducted into the Indian Air Force in 2007 and the Indian Army in 2008. Over time, the Akash system has undergone multiple upgrades to enhance its range, accuracy, and multi-target handling capabilities.
Design and Specifications
The Akash Missile System is designed as a highly mobile, all-weather air defence system. Key specifications include:
- Range: Up to 25 km (Akash-1), extended to around 30–40 km in newer variants.
- Altitude coverage: Effective from 30 m up to 18 km.
- Missile type: Supersonic, solid-fuelled, ramjet-powered missile.
- Speed: Approximately Mach 2.5.
- Warhead: 60 kg high-explosive, pre-fragmented.
- Guidance system: Command guidance with phased array radars.
- Targets: Capable of engaging multiple aerial targets simultaneously.
The system includes surveillance and tracking radars, missile launchers, and command and control centres integrated into a networked air defence system.
Components of the System
The Akash Missile System is a complete air defence network comprising:
- Rajendra Radar: A multifunction phased array radar for detection, tracking, and fire control.
- Launchers: Each launcher carries three ready-to-fire missiles, mounted on mobile platforms.
- Command and Control Unit (C2U): For engagement decision-making and coordination.
- Missiles: Supersonic interceptors with high manoeuvrability.
Variants
- Akash-1: The original system with a range of 25 km.
- Akash-1S: An improved version equipped with a seeker for better accuracy against manoeuvring targets.
- Akash-NG (New Generation): The latest version with extended range (~40 km), faster reaction time, improved mobility, and better performance against high-speed, low radar cross-section targets.
Operational Role
The Akash system plays a crucial role in India’s layered air defence network:
- Protects critical assets such as airbases, military formations, and strategic locations.
- Provides multi-target engagement, capable of neutralising aircraft, UAVs, cruise missiles, and stand-off weapons.
- Enhances India’s indigenous defence production capability, reducing dependence on foreign systems.
Strategic Importance
- Self-reliance: The Akash system is one of the first indigenously designed and produced medium-range SAM systems, with a high degree of local content.
- Export potential: India has cleared the system for export, with interest expressed by several countries in Asia and Africa.
- Cost-effectiveness: It offers a relatively economical solution compared to imported missile defence systems.
- Force multiplier: Its deployment strengthens both the Army’s ground-based air defence and the Air Force’s protection of aerial assets.
Recent Developments
- In recent years, the Indian armed forces have placed orders for upgraded Akash-NG systems to enhance operational capabilities.
- The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) cleared the export of Akash missiles in 2021 under the “Akash Prime” initiative, signalling India’s entry into the global missile export market.
- Continuous trials and improvements are being conducted to make the system competitive with advanced foreign counterparts.
The Akash Missile System thus stands as a milestone achievement for India’s defence industry, showcasing indigenous innovation in missile technology and serving as a critical pillar of the country’s air defence strategy.
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