Powerful surface-to-air weapon system successfully intercepts high-speed targets.

Balasore, Odisha: India has achieved a significant milestone in its journey toward self-reliance in defence. On Tuesday, the Akash-NG Missile (Next Generation) successfully completed its user evaluation trials at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, Odisha. This latest achievement marks a pivotal step for the DRDO and the Indian Armed Forces, showcasing the nation's growing prowess in indigenous military technology.

During the high-stakes trials, the surface-to-air missile system demonstrated its lethal precision by intercepting high-speed aerial targets moving at extremely low altitudes. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and manufactured by Bharat Dynamics Limited, this state-of-the-art system is engineered to protect Indian skies from a variety of modern threats, including fighter jets and agile drones.

Technical specifications highlight the system's formidable capabilities. The Akash-NG Missile can engage multiple threats simultaneously with an operational range of 30 km and can reach altitudes of up to 18 km. It features an advanced indigenous Radio Frequency (RF) seeker and a dual-pulse solid rocket motor, allowing for high maneuverability and rapid response times. The system is designed to fire a missile every 10 seconds, ensuring a high rate of fire against saturation attacks.

The success of these trials brings the system much closer to formal induction into the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force. Beyond domestic security, the Akash-NG Missile is attracting significant international interest. With nations like Armenia and Vietnam already utilizing Indian missile technology, this new variant is expected to further boost India’s defence exports under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Military officials noted that the system's ability to be deployed in both mobile and fixed configurations makes it a versatile shield for critical infrastructure. As the world watches India’s indigenous advancements, the successful conclusion of the Chandipur trials reinforces the country's position as a major player in the global defence market.