The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has marked a significant milestone with the successful completion of user evaluation trials for the Akash-NG missile system, a development that paves the way for its induction into the Indian Armed Forces.
Officials have reported that this next-generation surface-to-air missile demonstrated exceptional performance in terms of precision and reliability against a diverse range of aerial threats. These included both high-speed, low-altitude targets and long-range, high-altitude targets, effectively validating the missile’s expanded engagement capabilities.
In an update shared on social media platform X, DRDO confirmed that all Performance and System Quality Requirements (PSQR) were met during the trials. The Akash-NG missile successfully intercepted targets at various ranges and altitudes, showcasing its effectiveness in near-boundary scenarios as well as in long-range engagements.
The missile system is engineered with an indigenous radio frequency (RF) seeker and is powered by a dual-pulse solid rocket motor, which enhances its reaction time, accuracy, and resilience against electronic countermeasures. DRDO has described this system as a formidable air defence asset, capable of addressing multiple types of aerial threats.
The Ministry of Defence has also expressed approval of the successful trials, emphasizing that this achievement is a significant step towards the missile system’s integration into the Indian military. The Ministry highlighted key features of the Akash-NG, such as its indigenous radars and command-and-control (C2) systems, which bolster India’s air defence capabilities.
This advancement underscores India’s commitment to self-reliance in defence technology, aligning with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The successful trials of the Akash-NG missile system significantly enhance India’s layered air defence architecture, better equipping the nation to counter evolving aerial threats.
