New Delhi: India achieved a significant milestone in its defence capabilities with the successful high-altitude trial of the Akash Prime, an advanced variant of the Akash Weapon System, conducted in the rugged terrain of Ladakh on July 16, 2025. The system, designed to operate effectively above 4,500 meters, demonstrated its precision by neutralising two high-speed unmanned aerial targets, the Ministry of Defence stated here today.
Developed indigenously by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with the Indian Army’s Air Defence units, the Akash Prime incorporates a state-of-the-art Radio Frequency seeker, enhancing its ability to track and engage targets in challenging high-altitude conditions. User feedback has driven multiple upgrades, including improved propulsion and guidance systems, significantly boosting the missile’s operational effectiveness. This success highlights the strength of India’s indigenous defence ecosystem, fostering innovation and self-reliance in critical military technologies.
The trials, part of the First of Production Model firing exercise, were a collaborative effort involving key defence public sector undertakings like Bharat Dynamics Limited and Bharat Electronics Limited, alongside contributions from various industry partners. These tests validated the Akash Prime’s readiness for deployment, ensuring its timely induction into the Indian Army. The system’s ability to counter a wide range of aerial threats, from drones to high-speed missiles, makes it a versatile asset for modern warfare, particularly in strategically vital high-altitude regions like Ladakh, where extreme conditions demand robust performance.
Building on the proven success of India’s air defence systems during Operation Sindoor, the Akash Prime’s performance further solidifies the nation’s growing stature in the global defence market. Its reliability and cost-effectiveness have attracted interest from several countries, enhancing the export potential of India’s missile technology. The DRDO’s consistent advancements in this field underscore India’s commitment to developing cutting-edge solutions tailored to its unique security needs.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the Indian Army, DRDO, and industry partners for this landmark achievement, emphasising its critical role in strengthening India’s air defence capabilities, especially in high-altitude operations. He noted the system’s importance in safeguarding national borders against evolving aerial threats. Dr. Samir V Kamat, Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, also congratulated the teams, stating that the Akash Prime meets vital air defence requirements for challenging terrains. This success not only validates India’s technical expertise but also reinforces its strategic autonomy in addressing national security challenges.
– global bihari bureau
