Central Idea
- India demonstrated the firepower of its Akash surface-to-air (SAM) weapon system, where a single firing unit simultaneously engaged and destroyed four unmanned targets during the recent Exercise Astrashakti 2023.
- Countries like Armenia, Brazil, and Egypt have shown interest in acquiring the Akash SAM.
About Akash Missile System
| Details | |
| Development and Production | Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), produced by Bharat Dynamics Ltd (BDL). |
| Type | Short-range Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM). |
| Engagement Capacity | Engages four aerial targets simultaneously at a range of 25 km from a single firing unit. |
| Target Engagement | Capable of targeting multiple threats concurrently in group or autonomous modes. |
| Electronic Counter-Counter Measures (ECCM) | Equipped to counter enemy jamming and evasion tactics. |
| Mobility and Agility | Configured on mobile platforms for rapid deployment and relocation. |
| Operational Use | In service with the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force (IAF). |
| Range and Altitude | Effective range of 4.5 km to 25 km, with an altitude range of 100 meters to 20 km. |
| Physical Dimensions | Length: 5,870 mm; Diameter: 350 mm; Weight: 710 kg. |
| Automation and Response | Fully automated with quick response from target detection to neutralization. |
| System Architecture | Open-system architecture for adaptability to current and future air defense environments. |
Comparison with Israel’s Iron Dome
- Interception Capabilities: Akash is often compared to Israel’s Iron Dome due to its ability to intercept UAVs, smaller projectiles, helicopters, and aircraft.
- Defensive Role: While similar to the Iron Dome, Akash is primarily designed for defense against larger aerial threats like aircraft, rather than small rockets.
