Overview

• India’s upgraded Akash Prime system destroyed two high-speed unmanned aerial targets during user trials at over 15,000 feet in eastern Ladakh on July 16–17.
• The First of Production Model firing was conducted jointly by Army Air Defence and DRDO scientists, validating the missile’s indigenous RF seeker and upgraded ground radar.
• Performance tests confirmed the system’s reliability in low-oxygen, subzero conditions and its ability to engage threats at ranges up to 30 kilometres.
• The Army plans to form third and fourth Akash Prime regiments to strengthen air defence along high-altitude sectors of the China border.
• The successful high-altitude validation has enhanced India’s self-reliant layered air-defence strategy and spurred foreign co-production interest, notably from Brazil.