Indian Armed Forces Successfully Test Akash Prime Missile in Ladakh, Destroys Dual Aerial Targets

In a significant advancement for India’s air defence capability, the Indian Armed Forces have successfully conducted the first test launch of the Akash Prime missile in the high-altitude region of Ladakh. The trial, conducted on Wednesday, showcased the missile’s power as it destroyed two high-speed aerial targets at an altitude of 15,000 feet.

What is Akash Prime?

Akash Prime is an upgraded version of the Indian-made Akash surface-to-air missile system. It is a modernised variant of Akash Mark-1 and Akash Mark-1S, which had previously demonstrated exceptional performance during Operation Sindhoor. With this successful trial, Akash Prime is now set to be inducted into the Indian Armed Forces soon.

A defining feature of Akash Prime is its indigenously developed Radio Frequency (RF) seeker, which enhances target tracking and engagement accuracy. The missile system has a range of 20 kilometres and is specifically designed to neutralise low-flying aerial threats, including drones, fighter jets, and cruise missiles.

Key Features of Akash Prime:

• Mobile Deployment: Easily deployable from various terrains using mobile platforms
• Multi-Missile Launcher: A single launcher can carry and fire up to three missiles
• Large and Powerful Build: Each missile is 20 feet long, weighs 710 kg, and carries a 60 kg high-explosive warhead
• All-Weather Operation: Capable of operating in all weather conditions
• Automated Threat Detection: Equipped with automatic target recognition for swift action against threats like unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and low-altitude intrusions

Strengthening India’s Defence Readiness

The successful test in Ladakh underlines India’s growing defence self-reliance and technological advancements in missile systems. Akash Prime’s high-altitude trial demonstrates its effectiveness in complex combat environments, further strengthening India’s capability to defend against multi-directional aerial threats along its borders.

The addition of Akash Prime to India’s air defence arsenal is expected to significantly bolster national security, particularly in strategically sensitive regions like Ladakh.