Name	Akash
Image
Varient	Akash 1S Akash Prime Akash NG
Country of origin	Bharat (DRDO-BEL)
Type	Short range surface-to-air missile (SAM)
Range	25-30 km (Akash 1S/Akash Prime) 70-80 km (Akash NG)
Flight ceiling	100 m - 20 km (Akash 1S/Akash Prime) 30 m -14 km (Akash NG)
Length	5.87 m
Diameter	350 mm
Fin span	Unknown
Mass	710 kg
Flight Duration	Unknown
Warhead	60 kg, High-explosive, fragmentation
Warhead yield	Not known
Detonation mechanism	Radio proximity fuze
Max Speed	Mach 1.8-2.5
Propulsion	Solid rocket motor
Engine	Solid booster with air-augmented rocket and ramjet sustainer motor
Guidance	Mid-course: Inertial navigation system with datalink Terminal: Active radar homing
Launch platform	T-72 or BMP-2 or BEML–Tatra chassis (Army) Tata LPTA 3138 8×8 Trucks (Air Force)
Service period	2009-Present
Description	The Akash Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) system represents a cornerstone of India’s indigenous air defense capabilities, marking a significant stride towards self-reliance in critical defense technologies. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Akash is a medium-range SAM system designed to neutralize aerial threats like fighter jets, helicopters, UAVs, and cruise missiles approaching from medium altitudes. This all-weather capable system provides crucial air defense coverage for vulnerable areas and points, safeguarding against enemy air incursions. Akash employs a sophisticated integrated missile system featuring a high degree of mobility, enabling rapid deployment and relocation to address evolving threats and operational requirements. The missile itself utilizes a ramjet propulsion system, allowing for sustained high-speed flight and enhanced maneuverability during interception. Equipped with a high-explosive warhead, Akash is designed to inflict significant damage upon targeted aerial platforms, ensuring neutralization of threats. Guidance is primarily achieved through a sophisticated phased array radar system, providing accurate tracking and guidance to intercept incoming targets even in electronically contested environments. The system can engage multiple targets simultaneously, enhancing its effectiveness in saturation attack scenarios. Akash has been inducted into both the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force, bolstering their respective air defense layers across various operational theaters. The development of Akash is a testament to India’s growing expertise in complex missile technology and its commitment to achieving strategic autonomy in defense production. Further iterations, such as the Akash-NG (New Generation), are under development, promising enhanced range, precision, and overall performance, showcasing a continuous evolution of the system. Akash plays a vital role in India’s layered air defense network, complementing other SAM systems and fighter aircraft to create a robust shield against aerial threats. Its indigenous design and production not only reduce dependence on foreign suppliers but also foster domestic defense industrial growth and technological advancement. The Akash SAM system stands as a symbol of India’s self-reliant defense capabilities and its unwavering commitment to safeguarding its airspace and national security against evolving aerial challenges. Its successful development and deployment underscore India’s growing prominence as a major player in the global landscape of advanced missile technology and air defense systems.
Website	https://bdl-india.in/

Disclaimer: This information is based on publicly available sources and should be considered for general knowledge purposes only.