In a significant advance for India’s indigenous defence capabilities, the Indian Army successfully conducted a test of the Akash Prime surface-to-air missile system in the Ladakh sector. The test, which took place at altitudes exceeding 15,000 feet, involved a collaborative effort between the Army Air Defence Corps and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The demonstration highlighted the missile system’s precision and readiness for high-altitude operations.
Defence officials reported that the Akash Prime missile effectively targeted and hit two fast-moving aerial targets, successfully navigating the challenging weather and terrain conditions typical of the Himalayan region. This performance affirmed the missile’s ability to operate under rarefied atmospheric conditions, a key consideration for military engagements in such difficult environments.
The Akash Prime missile is an advanced version of the original Akash missile, boasting enhancements such as an improved seeker for superior tracking and engagement capabilities against enemy aircraft and drones. Tailored for extreme weather and high-altitude use, this system has emerged as a crucial asset for India’s air defence strategy in sensitive border regions.
The Akash Prime was previously utilized during Operation Sindoor in May 2025, where it effectively countered aerial threats from Chinese-origin jets and Turkish-made unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) used by Pakistan. Its performance in that operation underlined its strategic importance for India’s armed forces.
The recent successful test in Ladakh is anticipated to expedite the full deployment of Akash Prime within frontline units of the Indian Army, further bolstering India’s layered air defence network. This development aligns with the government’s broader initiative for self-reliance in defence production under the Atmanirbhar Bharat program.
Experts assert that the operational deployment of Akash Prime in high-altitude areas like Ladakh significantly enhances India’s ability to defend against aerial incursions in volatile regions, particularly along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China and the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan. As regional tensions persist, the successful integration of advanced missile systems like Akash Prime is seen as a pivotal step in strengthening national security and preparedness.
