On Friday, India successfully tested the new AKASH missile at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha, according to officials.
During the test, the missile was launched against a fast unmanned aerial target flying at a very low altitude. The weapon system effectively intercepted and destroyed the target, demonstrating the capability of the complete system, including the indigenously developed Radio Frequency Seeker, Launcher, Multi-Function Radar, and Command, Control & Communication system.
The test also confirmed the system's performance through data collected by various radars, telemetry, and electro-optical tracking systems deployed at ITR, Chandipur.
Senior officials from DRDO, Indian Air Force (IAF), Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) witnessed the successful flight test. The AKASH-NG system is an advanced missile system designed to intercept high-speed, agile aerial threats. The positive outcome of the flight test has paved the way for upcoming user trials.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised DRDO, IAF, PSUs, and the industry for the successful test, emphasizing that the development of this system will strengthen the country's air defense capabilities. Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, Dr. Samir V Kamat, also congratulated the teams involved in the accomplishment.
