Akash Prime Air Defense System

Why in news?

The Indian Army has successfully tested the indigenously developed Akash Prime air defense system at an altitude of 15,000 feet in Ladakh. This test is extremely important for India's high-altitude warfare capability, defense self-reliance and border air security.

About Akash Prime:

• Akash Prime has been developed by the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO).
• It is a medium-range surface-to-air missile system.
• It is an advanced version of the Akash missile system.
• It has been deployed by both the Indian Air Force and the Army to deal with aerial threats in the border areas.
• Its main goal is to destroy aerial threats such as drones, fighter aircraft, helicopters and cruise missiles.

Significance of Ladakh test

• The test was conducted at an altitude of 15,000 feet in a difficult area like Ladakh.
• It demonstrates the missile's precision and reliability in high altitude conditions of low oxygen, extreme cold and difficult weather conditions.
• It strengthens India's air defence preparedness in sensitive areas like LAC (Line of Actual Control) and LOC (Line of Control).

Technical Features and Capabilities

• It is equipped with a state-of-the-art and all-weather Seeker System (Target Search System).
• It is based on phased array radar and command guidance system, which gives it the ability to hit multiple targets simultaneously.
• This system can operate in both autonomous and group mode.
• It provides air defence with 360 degree coverage.
• This system is particularly suitable for protecting border military bases and mobile military columns.