"Akash is one of our success stories": Defence Secy on indigenous missile system's global reach
Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh hails the Akash SAM system as a major success story for India's indigenous defence manufacturing and global exports.
Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh has hailed the indigenous Akash Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) system as a crowning achievement of India's domestic defence manufacturing sector. Describing it as a significant milestone in India's quest for military self-reliance, Singh highlighted the system's ability to handle high-velocity aerial targets and its growing presence in international markets.
A Global Footprint for Akash
The Akash missile system has successfully transitioned into a stable production phase. While the Indian Armed Forces continue to procure the system, its international footprint is expanding rapidly. Following Armenia, which signed a deal in 2022 for multiple Akash-1S batteries, the system is now being exported to Central Asian nations such as Tajikistan and Turkmenistan.
This expansion marks a significant move for Indian arms exports, particularly as the system enters markets traditionally dominated by Russian-supplied technology. Singh expressed confidence that demand for the system will continue to grow across various parts of the world.
Proven Efficacy Against Modern Threats
Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and manufactured by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), the Akash platform has proven its operational effectiveness in neutralizing a wide range of fast-moving aerial threats. These include:
- Fighter jets
- Drones
- Cruise missiles
The short-range SAM system is capable of engaging supersonic targets at ranges of 25–30 km, with newer variants like the Akash-NG capable of reaching up to 50 km. The system utilizes ramjet propulsion and command guidance to ensure precision.
India's Rising Defence Export Ambitions
The success of the Akash system is part of a larger strategic push by the Ministry of Defence. Singh noted that cost-effectiveness remains one of India's unique selling propositions (USPs) in the global defence market. The ministry expects India's total defence exports to reach a staggering Rs 50,000 crore within the next two years.
While the BrahMos missile remains India's most recognized export product—with interest from several Southeast Asian nations—Singh emphasized that interest is surging in other areas, including artillery, mounted gun systems, and surface-to-air missiles like Akash.
A Legacy of Innovation
The journey of the Akash missile began in 1983, conceptualized by scientist Ramarao while working under the guidance of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam at the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) in Hyderabad. Officially named "Akash" in 1984, the project was led by Ramarao, who served as the Project Director, turning a decades-old vision into a highly successful, battle-proven reality for modern warfare.