India successfully tested the Akash Prime missile system at high altitude in Ladakh

What does Akash Prime refer to?

Akash Prime is an enhanced variant of the Akash Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) created by DRDO. It is specifically engineered to operate in high-altitude, low-oxygen conditions, strengthening India’s air defense in hilly regions.

Created by:

Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO)

In collaboration with Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Bharat Electronics Limited.

Aim: To counter aerial dangers including drones, hostile aircraft, and cruise missiles at elevated altitudes, especially in India's critical border regions such as Sikkim and Ladakh.

Main Characteristics:

Altitude Capability: Demonstrated effectiveness at 15,000 ft during tests in Ladakh.

Seeker Technology: Native active radar seeker guarantees accurate target fixation.

Mobility: Equipped on mobile bases for rapid, adaptable deployment across terrain.

Instructions: Combined system featuring command guidance and terminal active homing.

Velocity & Distance: Moves at Mach 2.5 with an utmost strike range of 30 km.

All-Weather Capability: Operates effectively in severe cold and thin air.

Probability of kill: 88% (one missile); as high as 98.5% in dual-salvo configuration.

Importance in Indian Defence:

High-Altitude Missions: Customized for India's hilly border areas (e.g., LAC).

Enhances Self-Sufficiency: Fully native approach within the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Affordable Solution: Reduces import expenses and boosts domestic defense manufacturing.