Context:
- The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully completed user evaluation trials of the Akash-Next Generation (Akash-NG) missile system.
- The trials mark a crucial step towards the induction of Akash-NG into the Indian Armed Forces, strengthening India’s indigenous air defence capabilities.
Key Highlights:
About Akash-NG Missile System
- Akash-NG is a next-generation surface-to-air missile (SAM) system developed by DRDO.
- Designed to counter:
- High-speed aerial threats
- Aircraft, drones, cruise missiles, and other airborne targets
- It is an upgraded version of the Akash missile system, with enhanced performance and technology.
User Evaluation Trials
- Trials were conducted to validate:
- Operational readiness
- User requirements of the Armed Forces
- Missiles successfully intercepted aerial targets at various altitudes, including:
- Near-boundary low-altitude scenarios
- Long-range high-altitude scenarios
- Performance met all qualitative requirements (PSQR) specified by users.
Technological Features
- Equipped with:
- Indigenous Radio Frequency (RF) seeker
- Solid rocket motor
- Provides:
- Improved accuracy
- Faster response time
- Greater resistance to electronic countermeasures
- Represents a major advancement in indigenous missile technology.
Strategic Importance
- Enhances layered air defence architecture of India.
- Reduces dependence on foreign air defence systems.
- Supports the objectives of Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence manufacturing.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- Missile Type: Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM).
- Developing Agency: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
- Key Components:
- Indigenous RF seeker
- Solid rocket propulsion
- Purpose:
- Interception of high-speed aerial threats.
- Significance:
- Indigenous defence technology.
- Strengthens airspace security.
- Related Programme:
- Part of India’s integrated air defence ecosystem.
Relevant Mains Points:
- Institutions Involved:
- DRDO
- Indian Armed Forces
- Conceptual Aspects:
- Layered air defence systems
- Importance of missile interception at multiple altitudes
- Defence Preparedness:
- Addresses evolving aerial threats, including drones and precision-guided munitions.
- Indigenisation Push:
- Aligns with Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India (Defence) initiatives.
- Way Forward:
- Early induction into armed forces.
- Integration with radar and command-and-control systems.
- Continued R&D for next-generation missile defence technologies.
UPSC Relevance (GS-wise):
- GS III: Defence technology, indigenisation, internal security.
- GS II: Role of scientific institutions in national security.
- GS IV: Ethical responsibility of state in ensuring national defence and security.